Jacob Murphy looking to put a 'frustrating' wait behind him at Newcastle

Murphy joined the club last summer from Norwich City in a £12million deal.

After a difficult start to his career at St James’s Park, the winger got into his stride late last year.

However, the 23-year-old has only made one Premier League start since he opened his United account in a 3-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in January.

Murphy has no complaints, having seen how well Kenedy has played since arriving on loan from Chelsea in January. Matt Ritchie, on the other wing, has also hit form this year.

“It’s frustrating in the essence that I want to play,” said Murphy. “I’d scored that goal, and I felt I was in good form. But, on the other hand, the boys have been playing really well.

“It’s a team game, and I know that when boys are playing good, that they’ll be playing.

“I had to bide my time with it and keep working hard. I’m delighted with the position we’re in now.”

Rafa Benitez – whose 10th-placed side take on West Bromwich Albion at St James’s Park on Saturday – could hand him a start in one or more of the club’s remaining four games.

Newcastle’s manager said last week that he was prepared to make changes to give certain players more minutes before the end of the season.

For his part, Murphy – who came off the bench in Monday night’s 1-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park – is ready and waiting for his next chance.

Reflecting on his first season at the club, Murphy told NUFC TV: “I’ve enjoyed it. It’s been a learning curve this first year at Newcastle.

“But I’m delighted with the way things have gone. I’ve improved a lot. Tactically, I can only get better.

“I know there’s plenty more to come. It’s just about keeping growing and learning and developing my game. I know that I will get opportunities, and it’s about delivering.”