Eddie Howe has heaped huge praise on Jacob Murphy and his midfield trio after Sunday's impressive 2-0 win over Manchester United. The Magpies dominated their opponents from the first whistle and leapfrogged Erik ten Hag's side after a second-half double from Joe Willock and Callum Wilson.
Murphy played a big part in the St James' Park win, starting from the outset once again in Miguel Almiron's absence. Asked about the winger's performance at full-time, Howe waxed lyrical about a player who has 'never let him down'.
"He gives his all. Week in, week out," the Newcastle boss said. "Whether he's playing 90 minutes, 60 minutes or two minutes. That might sound like an obvious statement but it's easier said than done.
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"He has never let me down. He's wholehearted and he's a real team player. He plays for the team, not himself. I love that about him.
"He's also a very, very good player. He's got outstanding qualities. I thought today we saw real intelligence from him. He was picking up pockets of space in behind the defence and his technical delivery was really high."
There was also high praise for Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock and Bruno Guimaraes after they dominated Manchester United's midfield. Longstaff in particular was singled out for praise after 'going under the radar' in recent months.
The academy graduate was at risk of losing his place on Sunday with Joelinton returning from injury. However, Howe's decision to stick with Longstaff paid off as Newcastle jumped to third in the Premier League.
"I thought all three midfielders were terrific today," Howe added. "Sean goes under the radar for me in terms of getting recognition his performances deserve. I thought he was really, really good today.
"Joe will get the headlines for his goal but I think his performances have been steadily improving in recent weeks."
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