Alex Murphy has committed his future to Newcastle United by signing a new long-term contract at St James’ Park.

This season, the 19-year-old defender has burst into the first-team, making two Premier League substitute appearances and appearing in Eddie Howe’s senior matchday squad 19 times.

Alex Murphy, who is mostly a centre-half but can also play left-back, made his senior debut against Chelsea in November and was an unused replacement in Saturday’s draw with Brighton.

He has signed a new long-term contract that reflects his new role as a senior member of the Newcastle club.

“I’m absolutely delighted to sign a new deal here and secure my future with the club,” Murphy stated. “I’ve enjoyed every minute since I signed about two years ago.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some fantastic players and coaches, both in the academy and on the first team, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.

“It’s an exciting moment to be a young player at our club; the number of players making their first-team debuts this season shows that there is a pathway. I just need to keep working hard and hope to build on the gains I’ve made thus far.”

Alex Murphy is staying at the Club

Murphy, a Republic of Ireland international, was signed from his hometown club, Galway United, in July 2022 and has progressed from the Under-21 level this season.

“I’m really pleased to see Alex sign a new long-term contract here,” added Howe, who oversaw the youngster’s promotion to the senior squad. “It is well-deserved credit for the effort he has done throughout the season.

“He had a fantastic pre-season in America and has gone from strength to strength since, earning his Premier League debut and a regular spot in our matchday squads.

“We rate Alex highly – he applies himself brilliantly every day and he knows if he continues working hard that further opportunities will come his way.”

Murphy’s signing from Ireland was part of a larger effort to improve the quality of players entering Newcastle’s youth ranks, and his rise to the first team over the last few years reflects the club’s ownership group’s desire to identify and develop young players.

“Everyone at the academy is delighted to see the progress Alex has made and this contract is a fitting reward for his attitude and hard work,” Steve Harper, the director of the academy, said. “Our recruitment staff did an outstanding job identifying Alex’s potential.

“His development since joining, initially with the Under-21 group and subsequently within the first-team environment, demonstrates the pathway that exists here at Newcastle United.”