Latest West Brom transfer news as a manager responds to speculation over one of their players.
Des Buckingham, the head coach of Oxford United, says the team would exert every effort to keep Josh Murphy on staff despite transfer rumors that have him linked to West Brom and other teams.
Murphy, five other Championship teams, and one MLS team have all been linked to a move to the Baggies. According to The Sun over the weekend, scouts from West Brom, QPR, Sunderland, Hull City, Southampton, and Minnesota United were all sent to keep an eye on the winger.
The 29-year-old is set to become a free agent at the end of the season with his contract running out. His form is attracting some attention with six goals in his last 13 games and three assists in his last four.
Murphy, who was doubting whether to continue with professional two years ago before a heart-to-heart chat with twin brother Jacob Murphy who plays for Newcastle United is currently involved in a promotion battle with Oxford. He has been a huge part of the U’s campaign and currently they occupy the fourth and final play-off spot.
“We’ll worry about that later,” said Buckingham to the Oxford Mail.
“He’s a wonderful player and suits the system we want to play.
“I really enjoy him as a person, and I really enjoy working with him. He loves being in and around this club, and we’ll do what we can to try and keep him here.
“If there are opportunities that come up for him, we can address those and try and do our best at the end of the season.
“I’m delighted to see how happy he is enjoying his football. He’s very settled and if he keeps performing that way, I’m sure he’ll attract interest.”
The London-born winger has made 33 appearances in all competitions this season. He has got six goals and five assists in 26 League One matches and has been crucia to Oxford’s play-off bid. He currently has two games remaining in the regular season with Oxford but should they finish in the top six they would have a home and an away leg, as well as a potential day out at Wembley Stadium.
“He’s been here nearly two years now, and the first 18 months, whether it be through not being selected or injury, kept him out of the side,” added Buckingham.
“We’ve changed the way we want to play since I’ve come in, and he suits it down to the ground.
“He’s able to show now what he’s capable of doing, and he’s got players in and around him that really support him, and bring out the best in him.
“There’s also a lot to be said about him as a person. He’s really settled down with his young family, and maybe that’s played a part in it as well.
“I love working with Josh. When you get to spend time with him, he’s a wonderful human being.
“You meet a lot of them in football, but when you get to work with them on a day-to-day basis, it’s something I hope to do for many years.”
