Newcastle United's starting XI continue to do the business with a fine run of form in recent weeks. However, those in and around the fringes of the first-team continue to give Eddie Howe plenty to think about before the World Cup break.
Jacob Murphy is one of those players trying to hold down a starting role after being given chances from the outset of late. Benefitting from Allan Saint-Maximin's injury issues, the former Norwich star has been attempting to put himself in the picture for Newcastle for the long-term.
Murphy had to settle for a place on the bench on Saturday, entering the field with only 20 minutes remaining as he replaced Joe Willock. Wasting little time in his quest to impress, the winger rattled the woodwork with a fine effort that had Aston Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen beaten.
