NEWCASTLE winger Jacob Murphy left his team-mates in stitches with his trophy lift yesterday.
The Magpies topped off their pre-season preparations with an emphatic 4-0 win over Villarreal at St James’ Park.
The two sides were competing for the inaugural Sela Cup – with Fiorentina and Nice also competing in the pre-season tournament.
A changed Newcastle side beat Fiorentina 2-0 on Saturday before naming a full strength team against Villarreal.
Murphy got on the score sheet alongside midfielder Joelinton and there were two goals for new boy Harvey Barnes.
The win meant Newcastle went through their pre-season unbeaten as they prepare for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday.
READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
Club captain Jamaal Lascelles lifted the pre-season trophy in what is always a slightly awkward moment for players.
But club joker Murphy embraced the awkwardness with an over the top trophy lift.
As the cup was passed from player to player, Murphy seized his opportunity by doing a shuffle before running past the players and lifting the trophy aloft.
He clearly cast away any awkwardness among the squad as his team-mates laughed at and applauded his efforts.
Most read in Football
DREAM TEAM IS LIVE – JOIN NOW TO BATTLE FOR THE £50k TOP PRIZE
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
The Newcastle cult hero has previously been dubbed “the king of memes” owing to his shocked celebration during Newcastle’s 6-1 rout of Tottenham last season and waving Southampton’s Duje Caleta-Car off the pitch after he was sent off against Newcastle.
The winger has become a clear fans favourite for his performances on the field and personality away from it.
One fan wrote on Twitter: “I love Murphy. His goal today 👌”
Another wrote: “We can’t ever let him leave.”
A third wrote: “Warming up for the Champions league later this season.”
While a fourth added: “Love him! 🥰.”
Murphy started 14 games in the Premier League last season as the team qualified for the Champions League for the first time since the 2002-03 season.
He will face increased competition for places this season as he competes for a position on the wing with Barnes, Anthony Gordon and Miguel Almiron – but remains a key member of the dressing room.
Read More on The Sun
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
