Rio Ferdinand says Jacob Murphy looks ‘revitalised’ after Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United destroyed their Champions League rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, 6-1 at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Before yesterday’s game, Jacob Murphy only had one Premier League goal to his name this season.
But, given the gift that is Tottenham, within nine minutes against the managerless club, he had two goals to his name, including a stunning long-range effort.
When the 28-year-old netted his brace, he had a look of pure shock on his face, as Newcastle, after getting beat by Aston Villa last week, responded in a perfect fashion.
Murphy was one of the players who started at Villa Park, with Howe keeping faith in the 28-year-old for the visit of another European challenger.
And the former Norwich City man repaid his manager, with Ferdinand blown away by how Murphy is changing, as he told FIVE.
“Jacob Murphy, we had him on the show a couple of weeks ago,” said Ferdinand. “Wow. Two goals. Devastating form. Putting chances on a plate.
“His work rate off the ball. He gave the ball away and he chased down like a Ferret he was and they almost scored off the back of it.
“This season. He has been revitalised as a player. He’s been tremendous, so shout out to Jacob Murphy.”
NEWCASTLE STATEMENT
This victory, and the manner of it, looks and feels a lot better for Newcastle because of what happened at Villa Park over a week ago.
It shows character, determination and fight within this group of players, who are edging closer to helping the club return to Champions League football for the first time in over two decades.
When the Saudi-led takeover replaced Mike Ashley in the St James’ Park boardroom, many would have thought that this was the end of the road for players like Murphy, but if anything, they are proving that they are ready for that Champions League adventure.
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