Alex Murphy delivers promising 8/10 performance as Newcastle reach Champions League round of 16 | OneFootball

Newcastle United claimed a 3-2 win (9-3 on aggregate) over Qarabag at St James’ Park to send the Azerbaijani champions packing out of the UEFA Champions League.

Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, and Sven Botman scored as Newcastle advanced comfortably on aggregate and into the last 16 of the tournament for the first time.

The Geordies had done most of the work in the first leg and took the opportunity to rest a few key players and blood some new ones.

With the Premier League run-in looming, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe unsurprisingly rested first-choice left-back Lewis Hall, starting Alex Murphy in his place.

The 21-year-old has featured on the bench in several Newcastle games this season but eventually received the chance to prove his mettle. He grabbed it with both hands.

Murphy won 3/4 ground and 2/3 aerial duels. He made two interceptions and two clearances. He made five recoveries and seven defensive contributions.

On the offensive side, he made 13 carries and played one key pass. Tonali was the star of the show, but Murphy was just as good.

Newcastle writer Lee Ryder gave Murphy an 8/10 rating, saying (via Chronicle Live), “Has waited patiently for his chance and did well. Stuck to his task and did not shirk a tackle.”

Hall has struggled with some injury setbacks this term, but Murphy has shown that he can deputise for the England international.

Newcastle’s coming games are ridiculously difficult, and it is hard to envisage Murphy getting another chance to strut his stuff anytime soon.

The FA Cup would have been perfect for a run-out, but with Manchester City coming to St James’ Park, Howe might opt for the more experienced Hall.

The Annaghdown native joined Newcastle from Galway United in May 2022 and will hope to establish himself behind Hall before playing a more prominent role next season.

Newcastle take on Chelsea or Barcelona in the Champions League round of 16.