'Right time' - Newcastle United player gets his wish as transfer request granted

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
Alex Murphy hopes his loan spell at Bolton Wanderers can propel him into Newcastle United’s first-team next season.

The 20-year-old made his senior debut last season, twice appearing as a substitute in the Premier League wins over Chelsea and Sheffield United at St James’ Park. He was also named in several matchday squads.

However, his involvement has been less frequent this campaign. With Eddie Howe’s squad nearing full strength, Murphy has reverted back to the under-21s. The versatile defender told the club’s matchday programme earlier this month that he was keen to go out on loan, and his wish has been granted.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad
Getty Images

Reacting to his move to, Bolton, the Irishman said: “I've been around the first team at Newcastle for maybe a year and a bit now, so I've learned a lot from them and training with the first team.

“It's been great, but I think finally now is the right time to go out and play first-team minutes because that's where you prove yourself, against men in this league, so I'm delighted to be here with a chance to show what I can do.

“It’s a massive step for me to get to a club like this and show what I can do for the rest of this season and hopefully show that I'm ready when I go back to play in the Premier League, which is obviously my aim.”

The Trotters currently sit ninth in League One, three points outside the play-offs positions. They host Charlton Athletic this evening (kick-off 7:45pm) where Murphy is in line to make his debut.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I think I'll get tested in this league, which is what I want,” Murphy continued. “I want to show people that I'm ready for the test and ready to go back to Newcastle and play but I want to do my best here and show the fans that I'm here for the moment and what I can do for the rest of this season.

“I saw the game here at the weekend and hadn’t really realised how big the stadium is. It’s a massive club which should definitely be at least in the Championship, if not the Prem. I think that's the aim and what everyone should be aiming for. There's pressure on but I think we'll enjoy that pressure.”

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.

Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice