Daryl Murphy is set to make his Newcastle debut in tonight’s EFL Cup clash with Wolves.
Newcastle will be looking to gain revenge for their humbling 2-0 home defeat against the midlands outfit in the Championship on Saturday.
And Rafa Benitez is ready to turn to the 33-year-old Irishman to help dump Wolves out of the cup at the third round stage.
Benitez said: “He has not been involved yet but is training really well and that is an example for other players to follow.
“Daryl is one of the options to start this game and have the chance to replicate what he’s been doing in training sessions.”
His £2m arrival from Ipswich underlines the sea change at St James’ Park since Benitez took charge and the power he commands in the transfer market.
In recent years Newcastle would never sign a player over 25 because of his diminishing re-sale value, but the club sanctioned the Murphy deal as soon as Benitez put forward his name.
“He’s a player with experience and who has scored goals at this level,” said the Toon chief.
“What I have seen from him is confirmation of what I was told. Daryl is a good professional who is very positive for the team.”