Galway-born defender Alex Murphy has signed a new long-term deal with Newcastle United, the club has announced.
The 19-year-old joined Newcastle’s academy from Galway United in 2022, having made his first-team debut for the Tribesmen at the age of 16.
Adept at playing in the centre of defence or at full-back, Murphy made his Newcastle bow in a friendly against Al Hilal in Riyadh in December of 2022, before being handed his first start in.a pre-season friendly against Fiorentina at St. James’ Park the following summer.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe was impressed enough to give Murphy minutes in the Premier League this season, with the youngster coming off the bench in a 4-1 at home to Chelsea in November, and again in a 5-1 win over Sheffield United in April.
“It’s some feeling and what I’ve been working towards since I joined the club almost two years ago,” Murphy told the Newcastle website.
“I love it here and playing my football here. I think I’m getting chances in and around the first-team so I think it’s going well for me so far. I’m really excited to see what the upcoming years bring and I wouldn’t rather be anywhere else.
“It was a big step for me moving away from Annaghdown. I had to wait until I was 18 to come over and it was a different experience, leaving Ireland for the first time, but I’ve learnt so much off the pitch as well as on it, how to live by yourself but I’ve loved every minute.
“The new contract shows that the club have faith in me, which is a big thing for any player. It gives you more stability, you know how long you are here for and you can set goals. Next season is big for me. I want to try and fully break through, playing in the Premier League every week. That’s the goal.”
Murphy has represented the Republic of Ireland at under-19 level.
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