Jacob Murphy has played his way into contention for a starting place at Newcastle United, according to Eddie Howe. The Magpies winger has been Howe's most-used substitutes of late, starting a mere seven times but playing 818 minutes of football this term.
Murphy impressed off the bench against both Manchester United and Manchester City, almost finding the net at Wembley as Newcastle sought a way back in the Carabao Cup final. With changes potentially on the cards for the north east outfit this weekend, Murphy could be thrown in from the outset.
“I think he’s done very well off the bench this year but that’s not to say that’s his sole role," Howe told reporters on Friday. "He’s done well when he’s come on in the last few games and that’s not lost on me. He’s pushing to start and there’s no doubting his qualities.”
Would you start Jacob Murphy? Pick your Newcastle United team to start against Wolves
Murphy was brought off the bench at Wembley last month as Howe's side were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United. Newcastle haven't returned to form since the cup final but the 28-year-old has faith they can get their season back on track.
"We are a resilient group. I am proud of every single one of the lads," Murphy said after the defeat in the capital. "We dust ourselves down. You don’t lose, you learn. It felt an experience like this for this group is just the beginning.
“I am confident in this group. I hope everybody else has the belief we do inside the dressing room because we can still achieve something special this season.”
Murphy will be battling it out with Allan Saint-Maximin, Anthony Gordon and Miguel Almiron for one of three attacking positions against Wolves this weekend. Almiron has been Howe's go-to throughout the campaign so far but has failed to replicate his early season form.
READ NEXT
Richarlison turns the air blue as Newcastle are given hope by Spurs after furious reaction
Newcastle may have found FFP solution to save millions who is 'one of the top guys around'
Liverpool owner calls on Premier League to bring in 'limits on spending' amid Newcastle threat
Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City players' 'annoying' Newcastle stadium admission crowd will love
Stadium mastermind gives Newcastle expansion hope after previous 60,000-seater and hotel plan
