‘Terrific’… Jacob Murphy thinks 26-year-old Newcastle player is absolutely ‘amazing’

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Newcastle United attacker Jacob Murphy has only just recovered from injury, but he already has even more competition.

Jacob Murphy returned from a shoulder injury in the FA Cup against Fulham, and has now started three games in a row for Newcastle United.

It has been great to have him back, adding more depth out wide after such a long period where Eddie Howe only had Anthony Gordon and Miguel Almiron to choose from.

But now Murphy is back, and he has been joined by Harvey Barnes. The 26-year-old made a comeback of his own last weekend, coming off the bench against Luton Town to score the equaliser in a 4-4 draw.

It was a huge moment for Barnes, on what was his first appearance since September. The England international had been out of action for months with a foot injury, but he is finally fit again and looks ready to make up for lost time.

Jacob Murphy happy to have Harvey Barnes back after ‘bizarre’ injury

Murphy is delighted to see Barnes back, and he has been singing the praises of the former Leicester City star in an interview with NUFC TV.

“Firstly, he’s a terrific lad,” he said.

“It’s been tough because the injury that he picked up was bizarre. To have that setback so early on in his career at a new club is not ideal.

“But he’s worked hard and it was great to have him back. It give us another amazing attacking option so we’re happy to see him back.”

Barnes can be a star for Newcastle

As Murphy says, Barnes gives Newcastle another amazing option in attack. And he will add something different, as he should prove to be a consistent source of goals.

It was his goalscoring ability that tempted Eddie Howe to bring him to St James’ Park, and he already has two goals in black and white – despite only making eight appearances.

Barnes is a natural finisher, and his ability in front of goal should make him a real asset in the second half of the season.

His return will also allow Howe to rotate, which he hasn’t been able to do much this season. Once Gordon returns from injury, he will have four players who can operate on either flank.

That is the depth that Newcastle have needed, and Murphy is delighted that such a ‘terrific’ teammate is back to full fitness.