Newcastle United’s most expensive signing last summer showed flashes of promise in limited action.
Jacob Murphy arrived at Tyneside from Norwich City last summer. The boyhood Newcastle United fan was the most expensive signing for Rafa Benitez. He didn’t earn consistent match time but did show positive signs when he got his chances.
2017-18 stats: 25 appearances, one goal, one assist
Contract runs until: June 2021
Roy Emanuel
There was certainly excitement when Newcastle United signed Jacob Murphy from Norwich City last summer, and the winger showcased excellent potential in a few games throughout the campaign. He did not see as much action after Kenedy was added in January, but Rafa Benitez knows he has a strong young talent here. Depending on the summer transfer window dealings, the Magpies can count on more production from Murphy in 2018-19.
2018-19 outlook: Quality rotation player
Durim Halimi
Jacob Murphy did not get many opportunities to prove his worth during the 2017/18 campaign. Despite his lack of playing time, Murphy showed that he has sufficient skill to play in the Premier League. Murphy utilized his quick pace on the wings and easily got past several defenders. While pace is an important attribute for a winger, Murphy must improve his passing and shooting in order to earn time as a starter.
2018-19 outlook: Quality rotation player
Carson A. Merk
It’s not easy for a player to get into a rhythm when they play sporadically. I think that was a big drawback for Jacob Murphy this season, not knowing when he might get a chance. The winger had solid moments, like his goal against Manchester City, but he appeared to be trying too hard to make a huge splash at times. His pace will always make him dangerous and he has good skill on the ball. Like Christian Atsu, Murphy needs to hone that final ball, whether it’s a shot or pass. Once he tightens things up at that crucial moment, he could find himself a key player for Newcastle United.
2018-19 outlook: Quality rotation player
Declan Ryan
It was a disappointing year for the Newcastle youngster, but in truth, not all of it was his fault. Once the Magpies got off to their great run in 2018, Rafa settled on his first team and rarely rotated the squad, at the expense of Murphy as well as some others on the bench. Fans will remember his well-taken goal away at Manchester City back in January, but that was the only time he hit the back of the net all season and after signing for £12m, Murphy will need to do more to earn a starting place over Matt Ritchie. Of course, at only 23 years old, it’s far too early to dismiss his potential, and there have been flashes of the pace and creativity fans expected after his arrival from Norwich. A good rotational option, it’ll be interesting to see if Murphy can make a greater impact next season.
2018-19 outlook: Quality rotation player