Jacob Murphy is an English professional footballer known for his exceptional pace, versatility, and unwavering commitment on the field. As a right winger for Newcastle United, Murphy has made significant contributions in the Premier League, playing an important role in the team’s recent successes.
His journey from a passionate youth player to a key figure in one of England’s premier clubs exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a profound love for the sport.
Yet, little is known about the Englishman before he joined Newcastle United. This article will be addressing that, let’s get into it!
Bio-Data
Full Name: Jacob Kai Murphy
Date of Birth: February 24, 1995
Place of Birth: Wembley, London, England
Height: 5 feet 10 inches (1.79 meters)
Position: Right Winger
Current Club: Newcastle United (Jersey Number 23)
Source: sportdailyfeeds.com
Early Life and Youth Career
Born on February 24, 1995, in Wembley, London, Jacob Kai Murphy was introduced to football at a tender age. Growing up in a family with a rich footballing heritage, Jacob, along with his twin brother Josh, displayed a natural passion for the game. Their early years were marked by countless hours playing in local parks and participating in community football events, where their talent became evident.
In 2006, at the age of eleven, Jacob and Josh joined Norwich City’s youth academy. This move was a significant step, providing them with structured training and exposure to competitive youth football. Jacob’s time at the academy was characterized by rapid development, as he honed his skills under the guidance of experienced coaches.
His dedication and on-field intelligence set him apart, leading to his integral role in Norwich City’s youth teams.
A highlight of Jacob’s youth career was the 2012–13 season when he was an important part of Norwich City’s triumphant FA Youth Cup campaign. The victory help marked him as one of the promising talents in English football.
Professional Debut and Loan Spells
Jacob Murphy’s transition to professional football began with his debut for Norwich City on January 4, 2014, in an FA Cup match against Fulham. To gain valuable first-team experience and further his development, he embarked on a series of loan spells across various English clubs:
Swindon Town (August 2014): Jacob’s initial loan move to Swindon Town in League One provided him with his first taste of regular senior football. During his tenure, he made six appearances. While he didn’t score, his time at Swindon was instrumental in acclimating him to the physicality and pace of senior-level football and changing his mindset from that of youth football or cup tournaments.
Southend United (September 2014): Shortly after his stint with Swindon, Jacob joined Southend United on loan. In seven appearances for the League Two side, he netted one goal. This team allowed him to showcase his attacking prowess and adaptability, contributing both as a starter and an impact substitute.
Blackpool (November 2014): Jacob’s next move was to Championship side Blackpool. Over nine appearances, he scored two goals, demonstrating his ability to compete at a higher level. His performances, characterized by blistering pace and sharp dribbling, provided glimpses of his potential to make a mark in English football.
Scunthorpe United (March 2015): A brief loan spell at Scunthorpe United saw Jacob making three appearances. Despite limited game time, he utilized this period to gain further experience and refine his tactical understanding of the game.
Colchester United (August 2015): Jacob’s loan to Colchester United proved to be a fruitful endeavor. In eleven appearances, he found the back of the net four times. His contributions were vital in several matches, and his consistent performances earned him praise from both fans and pundits.
Coventry City (October 2015 – May 2016): Arguably the most impactful of his loan spells, Jacob’s time at Coventry City was marked by intensive development and success. Over the course of the season, he made 40 appearances and scored nine goals. His dynamic wing play, combined with an eye for goal, made him a standout performer and a fan favorite.
Return to Norwich City
Following his loan spells and having proved himself for for senior team football, Jacob returned to Norwich City for the 2016–2017 season with renewed confidence and experience. His time away had matured him, and he was ready to make a significant impact on his parent club.
During this season, Jacob made 37 appearances and scored nine goals for Norwich. His performances were characterized by consistent displays of skill, speed, and tactical awareness. He became an integral part of the team’s attacking lineup, often being a part of the set-up for crucial plays and goals.
His standout performances did not go unnoticed, as several Premier League clubs began to express interest in the talented winger. Jacob’s ability to influence games and his evident potential made him a sought-after player in the top tier English football scene.
Transfer to Newcastle United
In July 2017, Jacob Murphy’s career reached a new milestone when he finally signed with Newcastle United, a club he had supported since childhood and which he described as his dream club. The transfer, reportedly valued at around £12 million, was a testament to his rising prominence in English football.
Joining Newcastle United provided Jacob Murphy with the platform to showcase his talent on one of the biggest stages in football; the English Premier League. It was a dream come true, as he had long been a supporter of the club. The move was a step up in his career, allowing him to test his abilities against some of the best players in the world.
However, his initial seasons at Newcastle were not without challenges. Competing for a spot in a highly competitive squad meant that Murphy had to adapt quickly to the demands of Premier League football. In his debut season (2017–2018), he made 25 appearances, scoring one goal. While he showed flashes of his potential, consistency proved elusive. Nevertheless, his speed, dribbling skills, and work rate impressed the coaching staff, ensuring he remained in contention for regular playing time.
However, the 2018–2019 season saw limited opportunities under then-manager Rafael Benítez, prompting Murphy to seek more game time through a loan move. Despite the setback, his perseverance and willingness to learn earned him respect within the team.
Loan to West Bromwich Albion
In January 2019, Jacob Murphy joined West Bromwich Albion on loan for the remainder of the season. This move was strategic, allowing him to maintain match fitness and gain valuable first-team experience in the Championship. At West Brom, Murphy was given the freedom to play an attacking role, often deployed as a winger or forward.
During his loan spell, he made 13 appearances and scored two goals. Notably, his first goal came against Queens Park Rangers, where he displayed his trademark speed and finishing ability. His second goal was against Leeds United, contributing to a crucial victory in West Brom’s push for promotion.
Murphy’s performances at West Brom were characterized by his direct style of play, consistently taking on defenders and creating scoring opportunities. Although his time there was brief, it proved beneficial in restoring his confidence and sharpness.
Loan to Sheffield Wednesday
For the 2019–2020 season, Jacob Murphy moved on loan to Sheffield Wednesday, where he found more stability and regular playing time. This spell became one of the most productive periods of his career. Over the course of the season, he made 39 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing numerous assists.
Murphy quickly became a fan favorite at Sheffield Wednesday due to his energetic performances, versatility, and eye for goal. He played on both wings, demonstrating his adaptability and tactical awareness. One of his standout moments was scoring a spectacular long-range goal against Fulham, which was widely praised by fans and analysts.
His contributions were not limited to scoring. Murphy’s creativity and vision helped Sheffield Wednesday in crucial matches, providing key assists and linking up effectively with his teammates. His consistency and leadership on the field earned him the admiration of his peers and coaching staff.
The experience at Sheffield Wednesday was transformative, enabling Murphy to rediscover his best form. It also prepared him for his return to Newcastle United, where he would eventually establish himself as a more confident and impactful player.
Return to Newcastle United
Jacob Murphy’s return to Newcastle for the 2020–2021 season marked a turning point in his career. Under the management of Steve Bruce, Murphy was given a new role as a wing-back, which leveraged his pace and work rate on both defensive and offensive duties. This tactical shift highlighted his versatility and football intelligence.
Throughout the season, Murphy made 31 appearances and scored two goals. His adaptability and improved defensive awareness made him a valuable asset in Newcastle’s system. Notably, his free-kick goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers was an eye-opener to his technical ability and composure under pressure.
With the arrival of Eddie Howe as Newcastle’s manager, Murphy’s role continued to evolve. He became a more influential figure within the squad, contributing with crucial goals, assists, and defensive solidity.
As of February 2025, he has made 172 appearances for Newcastle, scoring 15 goals. His dedication and consistent performances have solidified his place as a key member of the team.
International Career
Jacob Murphy’s international journey began at the youth level, representing England in several age categories:
England U18: One appearance in 2012
England U19: Three appearances between 2012 and 2013
England U20: One appearance in 2014
England U21: One appearance in 2017
He is yet to receive a senior call-up, though his continued progress at Newcastle keeps him on the radar of the England national team selectors. With his experience and versatility, Murphy remains a viable option for international duty in the future.
However, Jacob Murphy is also eligible to represent Nigeria at the senior international level through his paternal heritage. His father is of Nigerian descent, making him eligible under FIFA’s nationality rules.
This dual eligibility has sparked interest among Nigerian football fans and pundits, who see his pace, creativity, and versatility as valuable assets for the Super Eagles. The decision to represent either England or Nigeria remains his to make, and it will be influenced by his career path and international opportunities.
Would he choose the AFCON over Euros?
Personal Life
Jacob Murphy shares a close bond with his twin brother, Josh Murphy, who is also a professional footballer. The two have often spoken about their competitive yet supportive relationship, which has been a driving force behind their successes. Growing up, they were inseparable, sharing dreams of becoming professional footballers and pushing each other to excel.
The Murphy twins have maintained a strong connection despite playing for different clubs. Their mutual respect and encouragement are evident, as they frequently attend each other’s matches whenever schedules allow.
Off the pitch, Jacob Murphy is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality. He is actively involved in community initiatives, supporting local charities and engaging with fans. His commitment to giving back reflects his gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career.
Jacob Murphy, A Story of Smiles
Jacob Murphy’s journey from a young boy playing in the streets of Wembley to a key player for Newcastle United is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and love for football. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers, highlighting the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
His loyalty and dedication to Newcastle United have endeared him to fans, making him not only a respected player but also a role model. As he continues to contribute to his team’s successes, Murphy’s legacy grows, cementing his place in Newcastle’s football history.
Jacob Murphy’s career is a remarkable tale of growth, challenges, and triumphs. From his early days at Norwich City to his current role at Newcastle United in one of the most prestigious leagues in the world, his journey reflects his passion for the game and his relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to develop as a player, the future holds even more promise for this talented English winger.
