Alex Murphy (footballer)

Alex Murphy (born 25 June 2004) is an Irish footballer who plays as a defender for Newcastle United. He is a youth international footballer for the Republic of Ireland. Primarily a centre-back, he can also play as a left-back.

Youth career and breakout season
From Annaghdown, his dad was a coach at his local club, Corrib Celtic, where Murphy would play until joining Galway United in 2019, debuting at U15 level. Murphy made his senior debut for Galway United in 2020, against Athlone Town at 16 years-old, as a left back.

Newcastle United
Murphy joined Newcastle United from Galway United in July 2022.

During the 2022–23 season, Murphy trained with the Newcastle first-team squad. He featured in first-team friendly matches, playing in a 5–0 win over Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal SFC in Riyadh in December 2022. He also captained the Newcastle under-21 team, and played at both left-back and centre-back.

After impressing during the 2023–24 pre-season, Murphy made his first senior start in a 2–0 victory over ACF Fiorentina, keeping a clean sheet and playing the full 90 minutes. He made his league debut for Newcastle on 25 November 2023, appearing as a second half substitute in a 4-1 win in the Premier League against Chelsea. In May 2024 Murphy signed a new long term contract with Newcastle.

International career
Murphy played as a youth international footballer for the Republic of Ireland, and has captained age-group teams. On 31 August 2023, Murphy received his first call up to the Republic of Ireland U21 squad for their 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualification fixtures against Turkey U21 and San Marino U21 on 8 and 12 September 2023. He made his debut for the U21 side on 7 June 2024, in a 3–2 win away to Croatia U21 in a friendly.

Style of play
Murphy is said to be comfortable in possession at centre back, with recovery speed. He is able to play as a left back, as well as both right and left centre back.