Having been a squad player for the majority of the first half of the current Premier League campaign, Murphy has now started Newcastle’s last six games on the trot, playing an integral role in helping his team claw their way away from the drop one.
Murphy has slotted on to both wings up front this season, but has now been consistently starting in the right wing-back role.
The 26-year-old believes he has been able to raise his game over the course of the current campaign and has now become a real asset for his team, with Bruce also backing him to give his best.
Murphy added that his complete focus is on helping the Magpies cap off the season on a strong note by pushing for positive results in their remaining three games of the season.
Asked whether he has had Bruce’s backing this season, Murphy told NUFC TV: “I believe so.
“I think my hard work has not gone unnoticed, I think I’m becoming a real asset to the team so I just want to keep going, keep improving and keep making everyone proud.
“I know how I’m progressing and I’ve got three big games to see out of what could be a really big season for me.
“That is where my focus is at, finish as strongly as I can, hopefully, get a goal and assist along the way and keep improving in that right wing-back slot.
“It’s great personally for me to be involved in the last couple of months – to have a good run of games and to be part of a winning side.
“I’m proud of myself, proud of the boys and everyone deserves credit because we have been playing good stuff.”
Newcastle are set to host newly minted Premier League champions Manchester City at St. James’ Park on Friday and will be determined to spoil the party.
