Alex Murphy could have a longer Newcastle United career than many would have expected, according to Eddie Howe.
Murphy hasn’t had much game time at Newcastle United this season, even amid injuries to Lewis Hall and Dan Burn at left-back.
Now 21, the Irishman has only ever made four appearances under Howe, so it would be fair to assume he’s not heavily involved in first-team plans.
There are three games left in 2025. How many points will Newcastle get from them without Tino Livramento?
Indeed, Murphy wanted to leave Newcastle on loan in August but was eventually kept on and hasn’t been rewarded with much game time since.
Still, Howe was impressed with Murphy’s performance for Newcastle against Fulham and, given a spate of defensive injuries right now, the former Bolton loanee could be in line for more action.
That, in turn, could lead to a prolonged career on Tyneside.
Eddie Howe opens door to long-term Newcastle United career for Alex Murphy
Though Hall could return for Newcastle against Chelsea after missing the Fulham game, options are still limited.
As such, Murphy could be needed, and Howe was asked about the former Galway United youngster ahead of Saturday’s clash at St James’ Park.
During his pre-match press conference, Howe said: “In an important moment for the team Alex did really well.
“He’s trained with us for a long time but hasn’t had any major game exposure with us. He’s had a lot of training time, a lot of development and a good loan spell. He’s someone we trust and performances like that will do him good for the long term.”
Here’s our predicted XI to face Chelsea! What changes would you make? ⚫⚪
Options are limited 😂
How Newcastle United are ready to put their trust in Alex Murphy
With Hall, Burn and Tino Livramento injured, reports suggested that Newcastle could recall Matt Targett from his loan spell at Middlesbrough.
However, according to The Daily Mail, that is now considered reasonably unlikely.
As such, it seems the club are ready to put their trust in Murphy for the time being.
Obviously, at some point, Newcastle’s injured players will return and the Irishman could be pushed down the pecking order again.
For now, however, it seems like Murphy is now Newcastle’s back-up left-back and, considering Hall’s injuries this season, he will surely be called upon.
It will be fascinating to see if he takes his chance. If he does, a long-term future on Tyneside could await.
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