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Josh Murphy
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Joshua Murphy (born 24 February 1995) is an English professional footballer who plays as a winger for EFL Championship club Portsmouth. He began his career at Norwich City, for whom he scored on his professional debut for in a League Cup match against Watford, and later played for Cardiff City and Oxford United.
Key Information
Club career
[edit]Norwich City
[edit]Murphy, along with his twin brother, Jacob, first played football together from the age of seven[4] and eventually, they both joined Norwich City as under-12s in 2006.[5] It was announced on 31 March 2011, that the brothers joined the club's academy ahead of a new season.[6]
2012–13 season
[edit]Murphy's first involvement in the Norwich first-team came on 26 September 2012 when he was named as an unused substitute in the club's 1–0 Football League Cup victory over Doncaster Rovers.[7] He was a part of the Norwich City youth team who won the 2012–13 FA Youth Cup where he scored in the final against Chelsea.[8] Murphy signed his first professional contract for Norwich City alongside his brother on 4 January 2013.[9][10]
2013–14 season
[edit]He made his professional debut on 24 September 2013, replacing Bradley Johnson in the 67th minute of Norwich's Football League Cup match against Watford, with Norwich 2–0 down. He scored his first professional goal in the 77th minute to pull the score back to 2–1. Norwich eventually went on to win 3–2 in extra time.[11] He made his league debut on 2 November 2013 as a half-time substitute for Steven Whittaker in Norwich's 7–0 league defeat against Manchester City. Then, in December 2013, both Josh and Jacob both signed a three-year contract with the club.[12]
His first senior start was in the FA Cup for Norwich City against Fulham. He set up the first goal and was eventually substituted for his brother Jacob Murphy.[13] In 2014, Josh was awarded Professional of the Year in the West Norfolk Sports Awards, as well as the special achievement award.[14][15] Soon under management of Neil Adams, Josh had a long run in the first team, making appearance for Norwich City.[16]
2014–15 season
[edit]Following Norwich City's relegation to the Championship, Murphy made his first start of the 2014–15 season, where he played 90 minutes, and scored twice, which his twin brother Jacob provided one of the two goals Josh scored, in a 3–1 win over Crawley Town in the second round of the League Cup.[17] Murphy's first league goal game in a 3–1 win for Norwich over Blackpool on 27 September 2014.[18]
Wigan Athletic (loan)
[edit]With his first team opportunities limited, Murphy joined Championship club Wigan Athletic on a month's loan.[19] Murphy made his Wigan Athletic debut, coming on as a substitute for Jermaine Pennant in the 55th minute, in a 2–0 loss against Watford on 17 March 2015.[20] Murphy's five appearances at Wigan Athletic soon earned a loan extension until the end of the season.[21] However, Murphy was unable to help Wigan Athletic survive relegation and returned to his parent club.[22]
2015–16 season
[edit]Milton Keynes Dons (loan)
[edit]
On 21 August 2015, Murphy joined Championship club Milton Keynes Dons on a season-long loan.[23] He scored the winning goal on his debut in a 2–1 win over Cardiff City in the League Cup 2nd Round. On 26 September 2015, Murphy scored his first league goal in a 1–3 home defeat to Derby County.
On 3 May 2016, Murphy was named Milton Keynes Dons Players' Player of the Year 2015–16.[24] In total, Murphy made 46 appearances for the club, scoring 7 goals in all competitions. Murphy finished the season as the Dons' joint top goalscorer and achieved the most assists.
Cardiff City
[edit]On 12 June 2018, Murphy joined Premier League side Cardiff City on a 4-year contract for an undisclosed fee, believed to be around £11 million.[25] He made his debut for the club on the opening day of the 2018–19 season as a substitute in place of Nathaniel Mendez-Laing during a 2–0 defeat to AFC Bournemouth.[26] Following a short spell on the sidelines, Murphy scored his first Cardiff goal against Burnley, followed by his second in 4–2 win over Fulham.[27][28] On 10 June 2022, Cardiff announced Murphy would leave the club when his contract expired on June 30.[29]
Oxford United
[edit]On 26 July 2022, Murphy signed a two-year deal with League One side Oxford United.[30] He scored his first goal for the club in a 4–2 league victory over Wigan Athletic on 13 February 2024.[31] On 18 May 2024, he scored both goals in Oxford's 2–0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final, securing his club's return to the Championship after a 25-year absence from the second tier.[32] Following promotion, the club confirmed that they were in discussions to extend Murphy's contract.[33]
Portsmouth
[edit]On 25 June 2024, Murphy signed a three-year contract, with a one-year extension available, with Championship side Portsmouth.[34]
International career
[edit]Both Murphy and his brother were called up by the England U18 team in October 2012[35] and made their U18s debut in a 1–0 win over Finland U19 on 13 November 2012.[36]
Then in early 2013, Both Josh and Jacob Murphy were called up by England U19[37] and their U19s debut in a 3–1 win over Denmark U19.[38] Then on 14 November 2013, Josh scored his first England U19 goal in a 4–1 win over Hungary U19.[39]
In late 2014, Murphy was called up by England U20[40] and scored on his debut on 5 September 2014, in a 6–0 win over Romania U20.[41]
Personal life
[edit]Murphy was born in Wembley, London.[2] He is of Nigerian descent through his father and Irish descent through his mother.[42]
He is the twin brother of professional footballer Jacob Murphy. The twins have spoken about their close bonds and being there for each other.[12] Their parents and younger brother live in Downham Market and run the Arbuckles restaurant.[43]
While on the pitch, former manager Chris Hughton instructed the twins to wear different coloured boots so that he could tell them apart.[44] His uncle is former Ipswich Town footballer Tommy Parkin.[45]
Career statistics
[edit]- As of match played 14 September 2025
| Club | Season | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Norwich City | 2012–13[46] | Premier League | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | |
| 2013–14[47] | Premier League | 9 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | — | 13 | 1 | ||
| 2014–15[48] | Championship | 13 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 16 | 3 | |
| 2016–17[49] | Championship | 27 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | — | 32 | 5 | ||
| 2017–18[50] | Championship | 36 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | — | 39 | 9 | ||
| Total | 85 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 10 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 100 | 18 | ||
| Wigan Athletic (loan) | 2014–15[48] | Championship | 5 | 0 | — | — | — | 5 | 0 | |||
| Milton Keynes Dons (loan) | 2015–16[51] | Championship | 42 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | — | 46 | 7 | |
| Norwich City U23s | 2016–17[49] | — | — | — | 3[a] | 5 | 3 | 5 | ||||
| Cardiff City | 2018–19[52] | Premier League | 29 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 30 | 3 | |
| 2019–20[53] | Championship | 27 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2[b] | 0 | 33 | 8 | |
| 2020–21[54] | Championship | 32 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 34 | 2 | ||
| 2021–22[55] | Championship | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | — | 2 | 1 | ||
| Total | 88 | 10 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 99 | 14 | ||
| Preston North End (loan) | 2021–22[55] | Championship | 12 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 12 | 0 | |
| Oxford United | 2022–23[56] | League One | 23 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 24 | 0 |
| 2023–24[57] | League One | 28 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7[c] | 4 | 38 | 10 | |
| Total | 51 | 6 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 4 | 62 | 10 | ||
| Portsmouth | 2024–25[58] | Championship | 42 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 42 | 7 |
| 2025–26 | Championship | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | |
| Total | 46 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 46 | 7 | ||
| Career total | 329 | 39 | 17 | 4 | 15 | 9 | 12 | 9 | 373 | 61 | ||
- ^ Appearances in EFL Trophy
- ^ Appearances in Championship play-offs
- ^ Four appearances and two goals in EFL Trophy, three appearances and two goals in League One play-offs
Honours
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "EFL: Club list of registered players" (PDF). English Football League. 20 May 2017. p. 27. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ a b "Josh Murphy". Barry Hugman's Footballers. Archived from the original on 8 June 2024. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Josh Murphy". 11v11.com. AFS Enterprises. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Barclays U21s: Murphy's twin ambition for Norwich". Premier League Official Website. 30 October 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Dream chance for nine Norwich City hopefuls". The Pink UN. 31 March 2011. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Dream chance for nine Norwich City hopefuls". Eastern Daily Press 34. 31 March 2011. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Norwich City 1–0 Doncaster Rovers". BBC Sport. 26 September 2012. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Norwich beat Chelsea for Youth Cup". BBC Sport.
- ^ "Twins Jacob and Josh Murphy sign professional contracts with Norwich City – Norwich City FC – Eastern Daily Press". Edp24.co.uk. 4 January 2013. Archived from the original on 3 November 2014. Retrieved 24 September 2013.
- ^ "MURPHY TWINS SIGN PRO". Norwich City F.C. 4 January 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Watford v Norwich". BBC Sport. Retrieved 24 September 2013.
- ^ a b "Norwich City twins Josh and Jacob Murphy sign new long-term deals at the club". Eastern Daily Press 24. 23 December 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Manchester City 7, Norwich City 0". The Pink UN. 2 November 2013. Archived from the original on 13 January 2014. Retrieved 2 November 2013.
- ^ "JOSH WINS LOCAL AWARD". Norwich City F.C. 30 January 2014. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "2013–14 NORWICH CITY ACADEMY AWARDS". Norwich City F.C. 10 May 2014. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "MURPHY LOOKING TO PUSH ON". Norwich City F.C. 23 April 2014. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Norwich City 3–1 Crawley Town". BBC Sport. 26 August 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ^ "Lewis Grabban and Josh Murphy goals send Norwich past Blackpool". The Guardian. 27 September 2014. Retrieved 28 September 2014.
- ^ "JOSH MURPHY SIGNS ON LOAN". Wigan Athletic F.C. 16 March 2015. Archived from the original on 2 April 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ^ "REPORT: WIGAN ATHLETIC 0 WATFORD 2". Wigan Athletic F.C. 17 March 2015. Archived from the original on 5 July 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ^ "Norwich winger Josh Murphy extendeds his loan at Wigan". Sky Sports. 16 April 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ^ "PLAYERS' CONTRACTS UPDATE". Wigan Athletic F.C. 18 May 2015. Archived from the original on 20 May 2015. Retrieved 10 July 2015.
- ^ "Murphy makes Dons move". Milton Keynes Dons F.C. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Martin named Player of the Year". Milton Keynes Dons F.C. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Josh Murphy: Cardiff City sign Norwich City winger". BBC Sport. 12 June 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2018.
- ^ "Bournemouth 2–0 Cardiff City". BBC Sport. 11 August 2018. Retrieved 11 August 2018.
- ^ "Cardiff City 1–2 Burnley". BBC Sport. 30 September 2018. Retrieved 30 September 2018.
- ^ "Cardiff City 4–2 Fulham". BBC Sport. 20 October 2018. Retrieved 20 October 2018.
- ^ "2021/22 Retained List | Cardiff". www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk. Retrieved 10 June 2022.
- ^ "Josh Murphy Joins Oxford United". Oxford United F.C. 26 July 2022. Retrieved 26 July 2022.
- ^ Williams, Chris (13 February 2024). "REPORT Oxford United 4 Wigan Athletic 2". Oxford United F.C. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ^ Freeman, Jay (18 May 2024). "Bolton Wanderers 0–2 Oxford United". BBC Sport.
- ^ "Oxford United Announce Retained List". Oxford United F.C. 23 May 2024. Retrieved 23 May 2024.
- ^ "Blues Bring In Murphy". Portsmouth F.C. 25 June 2024. Retrieved 26 June 2024.
- ^ "ENGLAND U-18S CALL FOR MURPHY TWINS". Norwich City F.C. 11 October 2012. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "MURPHYS SHINE FOR YOUNG LIONS". Norwich City F.C. 14 November 2012. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "TETTEY GETS NORWAY CALL". Norwich City F.C. 22 January 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "INTERNATIONAL ROUND-UP". Norwich City F.C. 7 February 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Norwich City winger Josh Murphy stars with goal and two assists for England Under-19s in Hungary". The Pink UN. 14 November 2013. Archived from the original on 17 November 2013. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "CITY INTERNATIONAL WATCH: PREVIEW". Norwich City F.C. 1 September 2014. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "England Under-20s 6 Romania 0". www.shropshirestar.com. 5 September 2014.
- ^ O'Rourke, Pete (16 September 2016). "Republic of Ireland hope to call up Norwich's Murphy twins". TEAMtalk.
- ^ "Mum is the word for Norwich City starlet Josh Murphy". Eastern Daily Press 24. 26 September 2013. Archived from the original on 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ "Norwich City's Murphy twins wear different boots to help boss". BBC Sport. 29 December 2014. Retrieved 29 December 2014.
- ^ Roger, James (15 August 2015). "Who is Jacob Murphy? Five things you need to know about Coventry City FC's new signing". Coventry Telegraph. Coventry. Retrieved 18 April 2018.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2012/2013". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2013/2014". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ a b "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2014/2015". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ a b "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2016/2017". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2017/2018". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2015/2016". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2018/2019". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2019/2020". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 August 2019.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2020/2021". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ^ a b "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2021/2022". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2022/2023". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 30 April 2023.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2023/2024". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 2 December 2024.
- ^ "Games played by Josh Murphy in 2024/2025". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 31 March 2025.
- ^ "Bolton Wanderers 0–2 Oxford United: Line-ups". BBC Sport. 18 May 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2024.
- ^ "Martin named Player of the Year". Milton Keynes Dons F.C. 3 May 2016. Retrieved 5 September 2018.
External links
[edit]- Josh Murphy profile at the Norwich City F.C. website
- Josh Murphy profile Archived 10 October 2014 at the Wayback Machine at the Football Association website
- Josh Murphy at Soccerbase
Josh Murphy
View on GrokipediaEarly life and youth career
Childhood and family
Josh Murphy was born on 24 February 1995 in Wembley, London, England.[15] He is the twin brother of Jacob Murphy, a fellow professional footballer, and the two share a particularly close bond that began in their earliest years.[16] They are identical twins.[17] The family, which includes parents John and Maxine as well as a younger brother named Daniel, relocated to Downham Market in Norfolk shortly after the twins' birth.[18][16] Of Nigerian descent through their father and Irish descent through their mother, the Murphys maintained strong ties to their multicultural heritage while settling into life in East Anglia.[4] Growing up in this working-class household, Josh and Jacob developed a shared passion for sports, particularly football, through everyday activities like playing together in local parks and streets.[16] Their parents, originally from the north east of England, fostered an early affinity for Newcastle United, often watching matches as a family and encouraging the boys' enthusiasm for the game despite living far from Tyneside.[19] This familial environment emphasized teamwork and resilience, with John and Maxine providing consistent emotional support during the twins' formative years, such as consoling them after school setbacks or minor disappointments unrelated to organized sports.[16] The brothers' innate connection, described by family as almost telepathic even before their academy days, stemmed from these shared childhood experiences and helped shape their mutual interest in athletics.[20]Norwich City academy
Josh Murphy and his twin brother Jacob joined the Norwich City youth setup at under-12 level in 2006, beginning their development within the club's academy system.[15][4] The brothers, who had previously played together from a young age, progressed through the early stages of the program, benefiting from the structured environment designed to nurture technical skills and tactical awareness in promising talents. During their time in the academy, Murphy honed his skills as a versatile winger, emphasizing pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability under the guidance of coach Neil Adams, who led the under-18 side. Adams, appointed to oversee the youth ranks in 2008, played a pivotal role in their progression, fostering a competitive training regimen that included intensive sessions on ball control, fitness, and match simulation to prepare players for senior football.[21][22] Murphy's development was marked by key achievements, including his contributions to the under-18 team's 2012–13 FA Youth Cup triumph, Norwich's first win in the competition in 30 years; he scored in the second leg of the final against Chelsea, helping secure a 4–2 aggregate victory after a 2–1 win at Stamford Bridge.[23][24] In recognition of their rapid improvement, Murphy and his brother signed their first professional contracts with Norwich City on 4 January 2013, at the age of 17, extending their stay until the end of the 2014–15 season and transitioning them from scholars to full-time professionals.[25] This milestone capped their academy journey, during which they had advanced from under-18s to under-21s, gaining exposure through development matches and international youth call-ups that further refined their competitive edge.[26]Club career
Norwich City (2012–2018)
Murphy made his professional debut for Norwich City on 24 September 2013, substituting into a League Cup third-round match against Watford at Vicarage Road. Entering in the 67th minute, he scored the opening goal with a long-range strike just three minutes later, helping Norwich come from behind to secure a 3-2 extra-time victory.[6][27] In the 2013–14 season, Murphy's opportunities were limited as Norwich competed in the Premier League, with his first league appearance coming as a half-time substitute in a 7–0 defeat to Manchester City on 2 November 2013.[28] He made nine Premier League appearances that year without scoring, primarily as a substitute, while also featuring in cup competitions. The following 2014–15 season marked a breakthrough, as Norwich returned to the Championship; Murphy became a more regular starter, scoring his first league goal in a 3–1 win over Blackpool on 27 September 2014. He contributed three goals and three assists across all competitions, aiding Norwich's promotion as champions, though an injury interrupted his progress later in the campaign.[6] Seeking regular playing time, Murphy joined Championship side Wigan Athletic on loan in March 2015, initially for one month before extending until the end of the season. He made five appearances for Wigan without scoring, providing glimpses of his pace and dribbling but struggling for consistent starts in a relegation-threatened side.[29] The 2015–16 season saw him loaned to Championship club Milton Keynes Dons from August 2015 on a season-long deal, cut short in January 2016. Murphy scored six goals in 24 appearances, including the winner on his debut in a 2–1 victory over Cardiff City, showcasing his direct running and finishing before returning to Norwich amid the Dons' poor form.[29] Returning to Norwich for the 2016–17 Championship season, Murphy featured more prominently but in a reduced role under manager Alex Neil, making 32 appearances and scoring five goals, often deployed on the left wing. Injuries and competition for places limited his impact, with notable contributions including a goal in a 3–2 win over Rotherham United. The 2017–18 season began with similar frustrations, leading to his permanent departure to Cardiff City in June 2018 for a reported £11 million fee, driven by a desire for greater first-team security and Premier League exposure. Over his Norwich tenure from 2013 to 2018, Murphy amassed 100 appearances and 12 goals across all competitions.[8][30]| Season | Appearances | Goals | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013–14 | 12 | 1 | Debut goal in League Cup; 9 Premier League apps |
| 2014–15 | 25 | 3 | First league goal; promotion to Premier League |
| 2015–16 | 6 | 0 | Limited due to MK Dons loan |
| 2016–17 | 32 | 5 | Regular squad player in Championship |
| 2017–18 (partial) | 25 | 3 | Before departure |
Cardiff City (2018–2021)
On 12 June 2018, following Cardiff City's promotion to the Premier League, Murphy transferred from Norwich City on a four-year contract for a fee reported to be around £11 million.[8] The move made him the club's record signing at the time, with manager Neil Warnock identifying him as his top target to bolster the squad's attacking options for the top flight.[31] Murphy debuted for Cardiff as a substitute in the opening Premier League match of the 2018–19 season, a 2–0 loss to AFC Bournemouth on 11 August 2018. He went on to feature in 33 league games that season (23 starts and 10 substitute appearances), scoring 3 goals and recording 2 assists, including his first for the club in a 1–0 win over Burnley on 29 September 2018 and another in a 4–2 victory against Fulham on 20 October 2018. Despite these contributions, Murphy faced challenges adapting to the intensity of Premier League defending, often struggling with consistency in possession and end product, as Cardiff finished 18th and suffered relegation.[32][33] Returning to the Championship for the 2019–20 season under Warnock, Murphy recorded 25 league appearances and 4 goals, showing flashes of his pace and dribbling ability but starting inconsistently amid competition for wide positions. The 2020–21 campaign brought further limited opportunities following Mick McCarthy's appointment in January 2021, with Murphy making 30 league appearances and scoring 3 goals, often deployed from the bench as the team prioritized defensive solidity. Reports highlighted tensions over his high wages relative to output and occasional disciplinary issues, such as being fined for missing training sessions, which contributed to his marginalization in the squad.[34] By the end of the 2020–21 season, with his contract set to expire in summer 2022, Murphy's future at the club appeared uncertain amid ongoing struggles for regular playing time.[35]Preston North End (loan) (2021–2022)
Following limited opportunities at Cardiff, Murphy joined Championship club Preston North End on loan from August 2021 until the end of the 2021–22 season. He made 7 appearances without scoring, struggling to secure a regular starting place in a competitive squad.[36]Oxford United (2022–2024)
On 26 July 2022, Josh Murphy signed a two-year contract with League One club Oxford United on a free transfer following his release from Cardiff City.[37] This move provided Murphy with an opportunity to revive his career after a challenging spell at Cardiff, where limited playing time had hindered his progress.[38] During the 2022–23 season, Murphy made 24 appearances across all competitions, recording no goals but contributing four assists as he adapted to the team and began to establish himself as a rotational winger under manager Karl Robinson.[39] His form improved in the 2023–24 campaign, where he featured in 38 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists, including his first league goal for the club—a long-range strike in a 1–1 draw against Wigan Athletic on 13 February 2024.[40][41] Murphy played a pivotal role in Oxford United's promotion to the Championship via the League One play-offs. In the semi-final against Peterborough United, he provided key contributions, including the corner from which captain Elliott Moore scored the only goal in a 1–0 first-leg victory, helping secure a 2–1 aggregate win.[42] In the final at Wembley Stadium on 18 May 2024, Murphy scored both goals in a 2–0 triumph over Bolton Wanderers, earning man-of-the-match honors and marking the club's return to the second tier after 25 years.[11][43] Over his two seasons with Oxford, Murphy amassed 62 appearances, 10 goals, and 9 assists in total.[44] Following the promotion, Oxford United announced on 25 June 2024 that Murphy would depart as his contract expired, allowing him to seek opportunities in the Championship.[45]Portsmouth (2024–present)
On 25 June 2024, Josh Murphy joined Portsmouth on a free transfer from Oxford United, signing a two-year contract ahead of the club's return to the EFL Championship following their 2023–24 League One title win.[46] The move came after Murphy had played a pivotal role in Oxford's promotion via the play-offs, providing familiarity with the step up to the second tier.[14] In his debut 2024–25 Championship season under manager John Mousinho, Murphy quickly adapted as a versatile winger, primarily on the left flank, making 42 appearances across all competitions. He contributed 7 goals and 14 assists, helping Portsmouth secure a 16th-place finish and avoid relegation.[47][48] His pace and direct dribbling added dynamism to Mousinho's attacking setup, with notable performances including a goal and assist in a 3–1 win over Preston North End.[49] The 2025–26 season began promisingly for Murphy, but was disrupted by injuries: a hamstring strain in late August sidelined him briefly, followed by an ankle ligament injury sustained on 14 September that caused him to miss six league matches.[50] He returned as a substitute in a 1–0 defeat to Stoke City on 25 October, marking the end of a three-week absence.[51] By early November 2025, Murphy had featured in 8 Championship appearances, recording 2 assists, as Portsmouth maintained a mid-table position.[47][52] Murphy's form earned him a contract extension on 2 October 2025, extending his stay at Fratton Park until summer 2028 and underscoring his importance to Mousinho's squad amid interest from clubs like Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion.[14][53]International career
Youth international appearances
Murphy represented England at youth levels, beginning with the U18 team. He made his debut for the U18s on 13 November 2012 in a 1–0 victory over Finland U19.[4] At U19 level from 2013 to 2014, Murphy won 11 caps and netted 1 goal. His contributions included a goal and two assists in a 4–1 victory over Hungary U19 on 15 November 2013 during qualifying. He also featured in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualifiers and the Elite Round in May 2014, where England started with a 6–0 win over Montenegro.[54][55] He made 3 appearances for the U20s in 2014, scoring 1 goal on debut in a 6–0 friendly win against Romania U19 on 5 September 2014.[56] Across all youth levels, Murphy accumulated approximately 15 caps and 2 goals, developing alongside his club career at Norwich City.[4]Senior international career
Despite a successful youth international career with England, Josh Murphy has not received a senior call-up to the national team as of November 2025. Murphy is also eligible to represent Nigeria (paternal heritage) and the Republic of Ireland (maternal heritage).[4][15] Murphy was considered for a transition from the under-21 level during the 2018–19 season, when he featured prominently for Cardiff City in the Premier League, scoring six goals and providing three assists in 32 appearances. However, he was overlooked for the senior squad amid intense competition for wide positions from established stars such as Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford, who dominated selections under manager Gareth Southgate. In a July 2019 interview, Murphy voiced his ambition to represent England at the senior level, describing it as "any young English player's dream" while emphasizing his focus on consistent club performances to achieve that goal.[57] Subsequent dips in club form, including Cardiff's relegation and Murphy's moves to lower divisions with Oxford United, further distanced him from international contention.[15] His resurgence at Portsmouth in the 2024–25 Championship season, where he recorded 7 goals and 14 assists in 46 appearances, has highlighted his potential to attract renewed senior interest.[4]Personal life
Family relationships
Josh Murphy maintains a particularly close bond with his twin brother, Jacob Murphy, a professional footballer who currently plays as a winger for Newcastle United. The brothers entered the Norwich City academy together in 2006 as under-12s and progressed through the youth ranks side by side, often displaying an intuitive understanding of each other's play that Jacob has described as "telepathy."[20] They made their professional breakthroughs together at Norwich City, appearing in the first team during the 2013-14 season, though their club paths later diverged with Jacob joining Newcastle in 2017 and Josh moving to Cardiff City in 2018.[58][17] A notable instance of their intertwined careers occurred in August 2018, when Josh, newly signed by Cardiff following their promotion to the Premier League, faced Jacob's Newcastle in a league match—the first competitive encounter between the twins at senior level.[59] The family provided strong support during this period of transition and excitement around Cardiff's promotion, with parents traveling to games and celebrating milestones together.[17] This mutual encouragement has extended through career highs and lows, such as in May 2024 when Jacob offered pre-match advice to Josh ahead of Oxford United's play-off final victory at Wembley, where Josh scored twice; although Jacob could not attend due to Newcastle's schedule, the brothers spoke immediately afterward.[60][61] Josh and Jacob's parents, John and Maxine Murphy, have played key roles in nurturing their football careers, offering guidance on professional moves—such as Maxine's encouragement for Jacob's transfer to Newcastle—and consistently attending important matches to provide emotional support.[62][16] The brothers also have a younger sibling, Daniel, who has joined the family at various games, including Premier League fixtures.[17] Additionally, their uncle, former Ipswich Town utility player Tommy Parkin, represents a familial link to professional football that has inspired their journeys.[4][63] In recent years, the twins' relationship remains a cornerstone of their lives, with Jacob noting in a May 2025 interview that having Josh by his side through early challenges made their rise unique, as "everyone else had to do it alone… I had Josh."[18] They continue to speak daily, sharing insights on form and tactics, as Josh confirmed in late 2024, and their father John has emphasized the enduring special nature of their connection in reflections on shared successes like promotions.[64][65] This ongoing mutual support underscores how their childhood family dynamics have evolved into a robust adult partnership amid their professional demands.[20] In his personal life, Murphy became a father in early 2024 with the birth of his son Aaro, an event he has credited with improving his discipline and focus in his professional career.[66]Interests outside football
Beyond his professional commitments on the pitch, Josh Murphy has demonstrated a commitment to community support through charitable contributions. In January 2025, he donated to a GoFundMe fundraiser organized for the family of a Portsmouth supporter who tragically passed away during the club's match against Middlesbrough at Fratton Park, joining teammate Marlon Pack in contributing a combined £400 to aid the bereaved family.[67] Murphy maintains an active presence on social media platforms, where he shares updates on his career achievements and interacts positively with fans, fostering a sense of community without engaging in controversies.[68]Career statistics
Club statistics
Josh Murphy has amassed 379 senior club appearances and 58 goals across his professional career as of November 19, 2025.[33][44] His statistics encompass all domestic competitions, including league matches, cups, and playoffs. The following table summarizes his club statistics by team, including appearances (apps), goals, and assists:| Club | Years | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwich City | 2012–2018 | 108 | 20 | 12 |
| Wigan Athletic (loan) | 2015 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| MK Dons (loan) | 2015–2016 | 46 | 7 | 9 |
| Cardiff City | 2018–2021 | 99 | 14 | 10 |
| Preston North End (loan) | 2021–2022 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
| Oxford United | 2021–2024 | 62 | 10 | 8 |
| Portsmouth | 2024–present | 48 | 7 | 16 |
| Total | 379 | 58 | 55 |
International statistics
Murphy has not represented the senior England national team, with zero caps to date. His international career was confined to youth levels, where he made a total of 19 appearances and scored 6 goals. The following table summarizes his appearances and goals by youth team:| Youth Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| U16 | 3 | 0 |
| U17 | 5 | 2 |
| U19 | 7 | 3 |
| U21 | 4 | 1 |
| Total | 19 | 6 |
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