Murphy’s future at St James’ Park is currently under the scanner with his contract at the club up in the summer.

 

The 26-year-old has been deployed by Bruce in his natural role as a winger, while he has been asked to step up as a wing-back or a full-back over the current campaign.

 

 

Although Murphy has struggled to nail down a starting role at Newcastle, his boss Bruce is impressed with his performances and insists the club should not part ways with him in the summer by tying him down to a new deal.

 

Bruce revealed he is firmly impressed with Murphy and would like to see him in Newcastle colours for the long term as he ticks all the boxes to become an asset to the club.

 

 

“I sincerely hope that we tie Jacob down”, Bruce told a press conference.

 

“He has been big plus this season after spending a couple of years on loan.

 

 

“He has played a big part in the season.

 

“He has had, for him, a really good season where he knows now that he can convince himself that he belongs in the Premier League and I have been very, very pleased with him.

 

“So moving forward, I would love to see him at the club.

 

“That is what we want: young, hungry, determined to do well, and ticks all those boxes.”

 

Murphy started for Newcastle in their latest Premier League outing against Tottenham Hotspur, helping them to 2-2 draw and it remains to be seen what role, if any he will play against Burnley on Sunday.