Goalkeeper Joe Murphy has signed a new short-term deal to remain at Tranmere Rovers for next season.
The 42-year-old is in his 25th season of professional football and is currently in a player-coach role at Prenton Park. He joined Rovers in August 2020 from Shrewsbury Town.
An appearance against Crewe Alexandra after first-choice keeper Luke McGee was sent off meant that Murphy became the oldest player to play in the EFL this season at 42 years, one month and 23 days old, a record he would break again the next week against Doncaster Rovers.
He started his career on The Wirral, appearing in the 2000 League Cup final against Leicester City. His career after leaving Birkenhead would see him move to clubs such as Sunderland, Coventry City, Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich Albion across over 600 appearances.
Speaking upon signing his new deal, the Irish stopper said (Quotes via Wirral Globe): “Thanks to the SWA for all their support over the four years since I returned to the club where it all started for me. It’s been an honour to come back and represent the club both as a player and now as a coach over the last two years.
“For me to extend for another year is an absolute honour and a privilege to wear that badge on my chest. Hopefully next year will be an even better season and we can really push on.”
Making 54 appearances at the club since returning, Murphy has taken more of a step back from playing to be the goalkeeping coach for Nigel Adkins’ side.
The former Southampton boss was similarly ecstatic with his keeper’s renewal, adding: “I am delighted that Joe has extended his contract. He is still an exceptional goalkeeper and that has been demonstrated every day in training.
“Joe is an experienced player who sets an example around the training ground with his professionalism and attitude. His calmness and clarity of communication in training is of the elite level and this assists with the coaching process.
“As a goalkeeping coach, I’ve been impressed with the way he has worked with Luke McGee, who has had a fine first season with us. Joe is a valued member of our coaching team and I am really looking forward to working with him next season.”
Tranmere currently sit 17th in the League Two table and are mathematically safe from relegation. They have three games remaining, with games against Newport County, AFC Wimbledon and Accrington Stanley to see out the season.
Writer’s View
Joe Murphy is an important part of the setup both on and off the pitch at Tranmere Rovers so it makes sense for him to continue with the club for another year. Nigel Adkins sees him as a great mentor to Luke McGee, who has done reasonably well in his debut season with the club.
Whilst he may not be getting many appearances now, He will still have a very big role to play should anything happen to McGee. His experience should see him through any difficulties for a club he played for at the very start of his career in 1999.
1st Class Honours in Multimedia Journalism at Salford University. Writing mainly about League Two.
