ALEX MURPHY has committed his future to Newcastle United by signing a new long-term contract at St James’ Park.

The 19-year-old  defender has broken into the first-team ranks this season, making two Premier League appearances from the substitutes’ bench and featuring in Eddie Howe’s senior matchday squad on 19 occasions.

Primarily a centre-half, but also capable of playing at left-back, Murphy made his senior debut in November’s 4-1 win home win over Chelsea and was an unused substitute in Saturday’s draw with Brighton.

He has signed a new long-term deal that reflects his new status as a senior member of the Newcastle squad.

“I’m absolutely delighted to sign a new deal here and secure my future with the club,” said Murphy. “I’ve loved every minute since I first signed nearly two years ago.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some brilliant players and coaches - with both the academy and the first team - and I’m really grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.

“It’s an exciting time to be a young player at this club - we can all see there is a pathway from the number of players who have made their first-team debuts this season. I just need to keep working hard and hopefully I can build on the progress I’ve made so far.”

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A Republic of Ireland international, Murphy was signed from his hometown club, Galway United, in July 2022 and has stepped up from Under-21 level this season.

“I’m really pleased to see Alex sign a new long-term contract here,” said Howe, who has overseen the youngster’s step up into the senior ranks. “It’s well-deserved recognition for the work he’s put in over the course of the season.

“He had a great pre-season in America and has gone from strength to strength since, earning himself a Premier League debut and a regular place in our matchday squads.

“We rate Alex highly - he applies himself brilliantly every day and he knows if he continues working hard that further opportunities will come his way.”

Murphy’s signature from Ireland was part of a wider drive to improve the quality of players being introduced into Newcastle’s youth ranks, and his progress towards the first team over the last couple of years is reflective of the way in which the club’s ownership group want to identify and develop young players.

“Everyone at the academy is delighted to see the progress Alex has made and this contract is a fitting reward for his attitude and hard work,” said academy director Steve Harper. “Identifying Alex’s potential was excellent work by our recruitment team.

“His development since joining, initially with the Under-21 group and subsequently within the first-team environment, demonstrates the pathway that exists here at Newcastle United.”