‘Unfortunately…’ - Jacob Murphy rubbishes Sandro Tonali comparison in Newcastle United debate

A fortnight ago, the Italian put Brentford to the sword with a vicious strike from the byline. Tonali could have passed the effort off as deliberate but conceded the bizarre mathematical calculations post-match.

“Honestly, it was 70 per cent cross and 30 per cent shot,” he said. “It was difficult for the goalkeeper and difficult also for me. Also a little bit of luck.”

Murphy replicated Tonali’s effort yesterday to get Newcastle United off to a flyer at St James’ Park. Everything the 30-year-old touches is turning to gold, with 19 Premier League goal contributions this season.

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Only Mohamed Salah has more assists (18) than Murphy’s 11 to highlight his transformation under Eddie Howe. The Magpies went on to batter Palace 5-0, with a Marc Guehi own goal, Harvey Barnes, Fabian Schar and Alexander Isak finishing the job.

Three points propelled Newcastle to third and provided much-needed breathing space over sixth-placed Chelsea ahead of a tricky trip to Aston Villa this weekend. Win in the Midlands, and Toon fans will begin dreaming about mingling with the European elite once again.

Murphy - the flavour of the month on Tyneside - ordered his teammates to “not get bored” of the winning feeling. Speaking to NUFC TV, he also claimed every ounce of his strike against Palace was deliberate.

“Unfortunately, it wasn't Sandro-esque and I did mean it,” Murphy said. “The juices are flowing at the moment, so I had to when I was in that position. I’m always enjoying my football, I love it here. Everyone knows that. So, yeah, feeling confident at the moment.

“Everyone’s playing awesome. It really does make my job easier when everyone’s playing in such a form like this, everyone’s in such a good rhythm. It’s a joy and everyone’s going into each game super confident.

“We knew it could’ve been difficult today but we’re confident and in good form. We need to keep going and stick by our principles. We can’t get bored of this feeling. Results could change if we take our eye off the ball. It’s all about consistency and staying focused.”

Chris Sutton on commentary was stunned by Jacob Murphy

Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton was on co-commentary duties for the game and was blown away by Murphy’s effort. He said: “You can’t shoot from there! Jacob Murphy in brilliant form, he’s had one hell of a start to the game putting in some delicious balls, but he rifles this one in.

“He just goes for power, I think he does mean it. Such a narrow angle he has no right to shoot from there. Has a little look and then laces through the ball that’s a ferocious finish! Got to have some confidence to even think about trying to beat a keeper of Henderson’s quality and he does, bang, into the roof of the net, that is some finish!”

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