The 'boom or bust' Newcastle player set for pivotal role in Champions League push
The right wing position continues to be an ongoing problem for Eddie Howe to solve. The failure to sign a long term option in the position has been frustrating for supporters, as it is obvious that a new signing is required.
This week, it looks like Miguel Almiron is heading towards the exit door, with a move back to Atlanta United in the pipeline. However, the subsequent discussion has suggested that a replacement is unlikely in the January transfer window.
That has raised alarm bells within the fan-base, as it would be another example of the club taking a short term gamble on the fitness of the squad. Almiron has only played 149 minutes in the Premier League. The Paraguayan has only started once this season and that underlines his diminished squad role. It is far from a guarantee that he would be recalled to the starting eleven if Jacob Murphy did get injured.
That brings us nicely on to the form of the Englishman. Murphy has often shown flashes of his quality in a Newcastle shirt, but inconsistency has plagued him. His recent run in the first team has coincided with his best form for the club. Although it still makes sense to recruit a long term option in the position, the club may not want to disrupt the current chemistry of the front three, as it is clearly been working.
Even if a big name signing was made, it is unlikely that they would be able to push Murphy from the starting eleven in the short term. One huge benefit that Murphy brings is his relationship with Alexander Isak. The pair love to play alongside one another and their relationship is telepathic at this point. In the recent game against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, it was two passes from Murphy to the striker that led to both goals.
Murphy's impressive stats
Murphy's performances can be a bit 'boom or bust', but he's found form just when we needed him to. With Almiron unlikely to be replaced with another right-winger this month, it's vital his output remains consistent.
Since his recall to the starting eleven, Murphy has contributed three goals and six assists across all competitions. That averages out to a goal contribution every 79.9 minutes, which is an extraordinary strike rate. Five of his six assists have been for Isak.
Although it would be good for the club to have a right winger with a higher ceiling, if Murphy can continue to raise Isak’s game, he needs to to remain in the team. His directness and willingness to put balls into the box has improved Isak’s output.
Only three players have contributed more assists than Murphy this season. He is averaging 0.38 expected assisted goals (xAG) per ninety minutes. This places him in the 95th percentile among other attacking midfielders/wingers. It is his creativity that has secured his place in the first team.
If Almiron goes, the club will be taking a gamble if they choose not to sign a replacement. It will be one both on the fitness of the current squad and the ongoing form of Jacob Murphy. The club will sign a right winger in the next eight months. That is clear, but in the meantime, everyone needs to hope Murphy continues to perform.
