Newcastle fans are certain youngster can play for Eddie Howe this season after ‘solid’ display vs Arsenal

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Newcastle United’s loss against Arsenal means it is back-to-back defeats in pre-season for the Magpies, but it is not all doom and gloom.

After Newcastle lost to Celtic last weekend, there was concern for Eddie Howe’s side going into Sunday’s friendly clash with Arsenal over in Singapore.

The challenge then became even bigger when Alexander Isak missed the Arsenal game. He is not with the Newcastle United squad because of a thigh injury, although Geordie Boot Boys understand that Isak is seeking a move away from St James’ Park.

Amid the chaos surrounding Isak’s future, Newcastle lost 3-2 to Arsenal in Singapore. A late penalty from Martin Odegaard gave the Gunners victory in a game that saw Anthony Elanga net his first Toon goal.

Newcastle United fans praise Alex Murphy vs Arsenal despite ‘belter’ own goal

However, it was Irish defender Alex Murphy who caught the eye.

He started at left-back for the Magpies, and even scored a highly embarrassing own goal to give Arsenal the lead late in the first half.

Despite putting through his own net, Newcastle United fans on X were pleasantly impressed with Murphy’s contribution.

One supporter wrote: “Alex Murphy should replace Matt Targett now. He certainly has potential!”

“Despite the OG Alex Murphy has been really good first 45,” added a second Toon fan.

This Newcastle United fan commented: “I was critical of Alex Murphy at Celtic but he’s been solid here up against Saka… good to see.”

“I know Alex Murphy scored a belter OG but genuinely think he’s got more to offer this season that Targett,” wrote a fifth member of the Toon Army.

Has Alex Murphy made his competitive debut for Newcastle United?

While Murphy will not want to see his own goal again, he can be happy with his performance out in Singapore. He had the unenviable task of taking on Bukayo Saka and certainly held his own.

It is an important summer for the 21-year-old, who did not make a single competitive appearance for Newcastle United during the 2024/25 season.

However, he has featured in the Premier League before. Murphy made two substitute appearances during the 2023/24 season, both as a left-back. He featured in wins over Chelsea and Sheffield United at St James’ Park, having been an impressive part of the Magpies’ pre-season preparations in 2023.

Two years on and Murphy is hoping to catch Eddie Howe’s eye again. There is certainly an opportunity for him there, as Newcastle are not blessed with left-back options. The position belongs to Lewis Hall, while Tino Livramento can also operate on that side of the pitch.

When it comes to other options, Matt Targett is not quite at the standard he once was, while Dan Burn is utilised as a centre-back nowadays.

If Murphy can continue to impress in pre-season, he could be part of the Magpies’ senior squad this season. The alternative is going out on loan, having played for Bolton in League One last season.