'Fantastic' - Liverpool icon raves about Newcastle winger wanted by Eric Chelle after brace v Leicester

Jacob Murphy continued his impressive form for Newcastle United with a brace in the Magpies 3-0 win over Leicester City, drawing high praise from Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher and reigniting conversation around his eligibility for the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The Norwich City academy graduate is among the dual-national players being targeted by Nigeria manager Eric Chelle ahead of the international fixtures this summer.

Murphy, who hails from Wembley, England and eligible for the Super Eagles through his father, has been provisionally cap-tied to his country of birth since October 2013, after featuring in a European Championship qualifier against Slovenia.

Republic of Ireland are also in the mix for the services of the tri-national forward as he is eligible to represent the Boys in Green through his mother.  

Murphy opened the scoring inside two minutes at the King Power Stadium before pouncing on a rebound to double Newcastle’s lead just nine minutes later.

His clinical finishing and tireless performance were key in helping Eddie Howe’s side climb into the Premier League top five.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher said: "Jacob Murphy has been a revelation since he joined the club, but especially this season. He's been absolutely fantastic."

The winger’s recent performances — including key goals and relentless pressing — have seen him become an integral part of Newcastle’s European push.

In the absence of key attackers at various points this season, Murphy has stepped up, delivering when it matters most.

Wale Adejumo

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