Jacob Murphy scored his first Newcastle goal of the season in the win over Brentford, and manager Eddie Howe has heaped praise on the 27-year-old.
He was a surprise starter against Fulham a week ago, taking Ryan Fraser’s position on the left wing. And Murphy retained his place in the starting XI on Saturday, despite the presence of Allan Saint-Maximin on the bench.
Newcastle’s number 23 justified his selection, scoring the Magpies’ second goal of the afternoon. His pressing caused an error by Brentford stopper David Raya, allowing Callum Wilson to run through on goal. The 30-year-old then selflessly rolled it back across to Murphy, who had an easy finish.
It was a decent outing from Murphy, who also played a role in Newcastle’s third, helping Bruno Guimaraes steal back possession before the Brazilian midfielder found the bottom corner.
The £12million Rafa Benitez signing was replaced early in the second half by Joelinton, but will certainly have been pleased with his performance. And so was his manager.
Howe on Murphy in training
After the game, Howe spoke to the Northern Echo. He praised Murphy’s contribution against Brentford, and the work he has been doing off the pitch at training.
“Everyone’s different and needs different things,” Howe said.
“Jacob is a hugely talented lad, and really appreciated by me, the players and the coaching team because of his attitude and versatility.
“He’s a player that will play anywhere for the team. He’ll never moan or have any negative reaction to being moved, so I can’t praise him enough for that team ethic.
“But it’s great to see him individually do well and come to the fore. He’s a brilliant trainer, very conscientious and I’m really pleased for him.”
Murphy will do well to keep his place
The wide forward is clearly well liked at St James’ Park. Despite not being a regular starter, there was no real talk of him leaving the club during the summer.
He retained his place in the squad, and has so far started three games in all competitions this season.
Murphy’s work during training has caught Howe’s eye, and he has done well when called upon over the past couple of games. His versatility is a real weapon, with Murphy capable of playing on both flanks or as a right wing-back in a back-five. We also saw him briefly play as a striker in the win over Fulham.
But regardless, it might be difficult for Murphy to keep his place in the starting XI this upcoming weekend. Newcastle face a tough test at Old Trafford, and Howe will be very keen to put out his best side.
With Saint-Maximin returning from injury on Saturday, the Frenchman will now be in contention to start. That could be bad news for Murphy. However, he certainly did his cause no harm against Brentford.
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