Newcastle United’s Jacob Murphy Opens Up About His Journey with the Magpies
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In an exclusive interview with The Mag, Newcastle United’s Jacob Murphy has spoken candidly about his journey with the Magpies, from his £10m signing in 2017 to his current form, which has seen him notch up 22 direct goal involvements in all competitions this season.
A Lifelong Newcastle United Fan
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Murphy, who grew up in London in a Newcastle United supporting family with Geordie roots, revealed that it was an easy decision to sign for the club he had supported all his life. “My agent let me know Newcastle were interested. I was like ‘come on, let’s get this done’,” he told The Mag. “Once you know the team you supported has come in for you, it makes it an easy decision. To look down and constantly have the Newcastle crest on your shirt is amazing.”
Challenges at Newcastle United
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However, Murphy’s early days at Newcastle United were not without their challenges. The club was still reeling from Mike Ashley’s controversial tenure, and Rafa Benitez, under whom Murphy signed, had not been given the funds to properly back him. This made it tougher for a young, inexperienced player like Murphy to thrive. “Maybe it was all too much for him back then, trying to make it as a 22-year-old in front of over 50,000 at St James’ Park, having his first experience of Premier League football as well,” The Mag reported.
Progress Under Eddie Howe
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Fast-forward to the present, and Murphy has made rapid progress under manager Eddie Howe. In the 2022/23 season, he notched up six direct goal involvements in all competitions, scoring four and providing two assists. This was followed by an impressive 11 direct goal involvements in the 2023/24 season, with three goals and eight assists. And in the current season, Murphy has already surpassed those numbers, with 22 direct goal involvements, including nine goals and 13 assists.
Murphy’s Keys to Success
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So, what’s behind Murphy’s sudden surge in form? According to The Mag, Murphy attributes his success to his hard work and the team’s cohesion. “I do have targets, but I never try to force it. I always let it come to me if I’m doing the correct things. That’s how the universe works, it’ll always find you. This season has been finding me,” he said. “I have a great striker in Alex [Isak] to provide for and great experience behind me. Everything is clicking to help elevate my game, and then I think my game elevates others.”
International Ambitions
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Murphy’s impressive form has also caught the attention of the England national team. The 27-year-old has spoken about his admiration for teammate Dan Burn, who recently received international recognition. “Dan [Burn] has not only been a really good friend but he’s been a great inspiration for myself and a lot of people in the dressing room,” Murphy told The Mag. “To see him getting the accolades and for people to really appreciate him as a player at 32, that is added incentive. Dreams of playing international football can still be there. Credit to the new manager [Thomas Tuchel] for putting faith in Dan at such an age. Hopefully, people at 30 aren’t being overlooked, 30 is the new 25! It’s something I can see. But I know taking care of my club form is going to give me the best opportunity to represent my country.”
A Memorable Wembley Experience
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Murphy also spoke about his recent experience at Wembley, where Newcastle United recently competed in a high-stakes match. “Wembley was amazing. The feeling was a lot different this time compared to when we were runners-up a couple of seasons ago. We felt ready. We felt this was our time. The build-up was good. A lot less nerves. Once the game started, something felt different,” he said.
As Newcastle United continues to push for success, Jacob Murphy’s form will undoubtedly be crucial. With his sights set on international recognition and his club pushing for silverware, the Magpies’ winger is sure to be one to watch in the coming months.
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