Newcastle United have more strikers than they now what to do with for now.
Newcastle United striker Daryl Murphy reminded manager Rafa Benitez what he can do when he scored for the club’s under-23 side on Monday afternoon.
The 33-year-old arrived at St. James’ Park in the summer, but such is Newcastle’s strength in depth that he has featured just once to date.
A calf injury has certainly played its part yet with Murphy now fit he will be hoping his strike against West Bromwich Albion’s youngsters puts him firmly back in the mind of his manager.
Newcastle have Dwight Gayle, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ayoze Perez as alternative striking options, so it no surprise Murphy has quickly been forgotten after his injury layoff. However such is the talent at the club’s disposal that one wonders just how much Murphy will play between now and May.
The Republic of Ireland international proved at former club Ipswich Town that he can score regularly when picked week in, week out, but as things stand he is fourth choice at St. James’ Park and that does not look like changing any time soon.
His goal for the under-23s will certainly help, but he may need to get a few more of those before he is starting for Newcastle’s senior side.
At this rate, even a place on the bench could be beyond him, at least in the short term.
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