CHRIS SUTTON

IT IS a lazy stereotype to say that Glenn Murray’s game is based purely on putting himself about and bullying defenders. You cannot survive as a 34-year-old striker at this level on brawn alone. You need brains too and Murray is an extremely intelligent footballer. His game has never been about pace. His key attributes are his link-up play, his clever movements, his ability to read things in and around the box. He may be physical with defenders but he uses his body intelligently. Gone are the days when strikers could get across the centre half and clatter them early in a game. Instead, Murray subtly unsettles defenders with crafty digs and nudges. It is true that he has made more fouls than any player since the start of last season, but he is in the top 10 for free-kicks won, too. It is odd the way his career has worked out. Many thought he was finished at the top level when he left Bournemouth for Brighton in the Championship but he has so much self-belief. Chris Hughton deserves credit for sensing that and signing him. He looks in top condition and there is no reason why he can’t continue to perform for a couple more seasons at least.