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Michael Gray comments on speculation linking Sunderland with a move for Newcastle United’s Daryl Murphy

Michael Gray - Sheffield Wednesday substitute (Reuters)
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The former Sunderland striker has been linked with a return to the Stadium of Light from Newcastle United.

Former Sunderland left-back Michael Gray has told Talksport he’s not sure if Daryl Murphy is the right fit for Simon Grayson’s side.

The Irish Sun reported earlier today [Tuesday] that Sunderland are one of three Championship clubs keen on the Newcastle United striker, who it is claimed has been told he can leave St James’ Park.

The Mackems, along with Nottingham Forest, are said to have enquired over a loan move for Murphy, but Gray said of the former Stadium of Light employee: “What is he 35, 36 years old now, Daryl Murphy?

Newcastle United's Daryl Murphy celebrates scoring their first goalNewcastle United’s Daryl Murphy

“I haven’t spoken to Simon. I’m not sure if he’s going to go down that avenue. Certainly we do need a striker, but I’m not sure if he’s the right fit for us right now.”

Murphy moved to Newcastle in a deal worth a reported £3 million in August 2016, having scored 61 goals in 207 games for Ipswich Town since the start of 2011-12.

His manager there was, for the most part, Mick McCarthy, who was Sunderland’s manager when Murphy arrived on Wearside from Waterford United 12 years ago.

The Republic of Ireland international played 122 times for Sunderland and scored 14 goals before being sold to Celtic.

Former Sunderland striker Daryl MurphyFormer Sunderland striker Daryl Murphy

Jack Colback was the last player to transfer directly between Newcastle and Sunderland, having left the latter side in 2014.

Sunderland fans – would you take Murphy back from Newcastle United?