I’VE GOT THE KNOW-HOWE
Galway teen Murphy vows to win a place in Eddie’s Toon line-up after signing new deal at St James’ Park
ALEX MURPHY has set a goal of becoming a Newcastle United regular after landing himself a fresh long-term deal.
And after signing the Premier League extension, the Galway man beamed: “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Murphy, 19, only left Galway United in 2022 but has motored through the Toon ranks and boss Eddie Howe (right) insists more opportunities will come his way.
Having featured in pre-season last summer, Murphy made his Premier League debut off the bench in a 4-1 win over Chelsea last November.
And he followed up with a second appearance in the recent 5-1 demolition of Sheffield United.
The centre-back is well regarded and has been involved in 19 first-team squads this season, after battling back from a hamstring injury in September.
“It’s some feeling and what I’ve been working towards since I joined the club almost two years ago. I love playing my football here,” said Murphy.
“I’m getting chances around the first-team so it’s going well for me so far. I’m really excited to see what the upcoming years bring and wouldn’t rather be anywhere else.”
Murphy continued: “It was a big step moving away from Annaghdown. I had to wait until I was 18 to come over and it was a different experience, leaving
Ireland for the first time.
“But I’ve learnt so much off the pitch as well as on it, like how to live by yourself, but I’ve loved every minute. The new contract shows that the club has faith in me, which is a big thing for any player. It gives you more stability and you can set goals.”
While Murphy has enjoyed this breakthrough campaign, he feels ready for more of the first-team limelight next season.
“That’s the dream from when you start as a young child, wanting to play football in the Premier League,” he said in an interview with the club website. “To do it at home, against Chelsea, was a massive moment. The feeling I got after the game was something I don’t think I’ll ever experience again.
I’ll remember it forever.”
Murphy’s confidence is soaring and he won’t shy away from raising the bar, believing he can meet his next Newcastle challenge head on. “Next season is big for me,” he said. “I want to try and fully break through, playing in the Premier League every week. That’s the goal.
“Eddie Howe is the most important person at the club so I’m trying to impress him everyday in training, getting better.
“Hopefully he sees that I’m ready for a start or to play regularly in the Premier League. He has already improved my game massively.” Manager Howe said: “We rate Alex highly. He applies himself brilliantly every day.
“And he knows if he continues working hard that further opportunities will come his way.”