One to Watch – Jamie Murphy

Name: Jamie Murphy

Date of Birth: 28/8/1989

Nationality: Scotland

Former Clubs: Motherwell

League Appearances (Goals): 248 (44)

International Appearances (Goals): 0 (0)

Player Profile: Jamie Murphy seems to finally be hitting the form expected of him when he arrived at Bramall Lane from Motherwell in 2012. Having put his early Sheffield United injury woes behind him, largely down to the latest fitness trend pilates, the winger has been consistently causing problems for League One and Premier League defences this campaign. Initially bought as a striker, the Glaswegian has found solace on the left of midfield for Sheffield United and has started to find a consistency to his game that was initially lacking upon his arrival.

The 25-year-old began his career at Clyde before joining Motherwell at Under 13 level in 2001. He finished as top goalscorer at every age group he played at and was rewarded with his first professional contract whilst playing for the U17`s in 2005. He slowly made his way into the first team, initially as a striker, and became an integral part of The Steelman`s starting eleven, adding to his reputation with important goals in the Europa League and SPL.

The 2010/2011 campaign saw Murphy hit double figures for the second successive season and his impressive form didn`t go unnoticed, with rumours of Rangers and Blackpool interested in targeting the Scot. With Murphy`s long term future in doubt it was Sheffield United who made a move for the attacking midfielder, who finished with 34 goals in 176 league appearances at Motherwell, as they signed him on a three and a half-year-deal for a reported £250 000 in January 2013.

His early Sheffield United career was hampered with recurring injuries and it was only until December the following season that Murphy`s form improved and he found himself as an important figure in the first team. His notable wing play helped United to a playoff place last campaign and has helped The Blades to the semi-final of the League Cup this season.