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.
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Frustrated not to have scored, the 27-year-old continued to cause problems for the away side as he attempted to add to the emphatic victory. Murphy certainly has his critics among the Newcastle fanbase but his short cameo at the weekend was arguably his best of the season so far.
The wide man looked hungry to impress, more confident with the ball and put the hard yards in without it. Howe clearly sees something in the player, giving him game time in every Newcastle match so far this season.
Murphy's long-term future at the club is anything but secure but he certainly has a role, however small, to play in Newcastle's European push in the short-term. The same can be said for a lot of first-team stars currently resigned to a spot on the bench.
One of Howe's biggest achievements of his Newcastle tenure thus far has been uniting the group. Whether you are in his team or on the sidelines, the boss makes you feel welcomed and a big part of the group.
Take Jamaal Lascelles and Ryan Fraser, both unused substitutes in the 2-1 win over Tottenham earlier this month. Both players received hugs and handshakes from the boss, as if they had been out on the pitch themselves.
These little touches are why Howe commands such respect in this dressing room, even with those first-team players struggling for regular game time. It could make the difference between Newcastle qualifying for Europe or missing out in the second part of the season.
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