Jacob Murphy’s spell in the Newcastle starting XI should come to an end vs Chelsea

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Multiple players have enjoyed a Newcastle renaissance under Eddie Howe, but Jacob Murphy’s happened before the managerial change.

For all his shortcomings, Steve Bruce certainly found a way to get more out of the £12million man.

Signed by Rafa Benitez, Murphy initially struggled in a Toon shirt. He looked like an absolute waste of money.

But he forced his way into Bruce’s side last season, and ended up earning himself a new contract. He scored key goals and provided vital assists – made all the more special considering he’s a boyhood Toon fan.

Murphy has remained in the first-team picture under Howe, and has started the last four games with Allan Saint-Maximin out. The Toon boss recently hailed Murphy, describing him as ‘reliable’ and a ‘very good player’.

While he’s shown moments of promise, his spell in the starting XI should come to an end against Chelsea on Sunday.

Newcastle have better options than Jacob Murphy

Murphy is an inconsistent performer – it’s probably why he’s never been a mainstay in the Newcastle XI.

But his current string of games sums him up. He’s had fantastic moments then infuriating spells. Against Brighton he set the first goal up, but his greed denied his side another when the Seagulls got caught playing out from the back.

The 27-year-old started once again on Thursday night against Southampton, but it was a tough 90 minutes against the Saints. He managed to get into some great positions, but he failed to deliver on every occasion.

And with multiple options available to him, Howe should make a change when we head to Stamford Bridge.

Allan Saint-Maximin could return, and he’s a guaranteed starter when fully fit. Joelinton is also an option – he’s played out wide before. And Miguel Almiron is also in reserve, a player who’s barely got a chance under Howe.

Murphy has shone at times, but his performance on the south coast was extremely disappointing. Howe has multiple alternatives, and a change vs Chelsea is necessary.