One of Norwich’s brightest academy products believes his loan spell at Colchester last season has aided his progression in to a better player.
Jacob Murphy – twin brother of another Norwich starlet, Josh – made 11 appearances for the Essex club last season and contributed four goals as the U’s narrowly avoided relegation from League 1 on the final day of the campaign.
Murphy – who is currently on loan at another League 1 side, Coventry City – returns to face Colchester this weekend and has talked highly of his time at the club.
“I feel that I improved as a player as it went on and playing so much and getting so many minutes on the pitch was very beneficial for me. “It’s given me more knowledge of the game and I know what I can and can’t do. “I got some great experience while I was there and I thank Colchester for the opportunity that they gave me.”
The England under-20 international has had mixed experiences while out on loan over the past few seasons.
Encouraging performances for Swindon, Colchester and Blackpool were tempered slightly following controversy at the latter – the Tangerines cutting short Murphy’s loan spell after what they deemed to be unprofessional conduct.
However, this season Murphy has impressed at Coventry, making three appearances and scoring once.
Norwich will be hoping that Murphy can continue his current good run of form and maintain his standing as one of the club’s brightest future prospects.
