West Brom-linked winger Josh Murphy wants to play at the top level, but he admits that no decision on his future is near.
The 29-year-old scored twice to help Oxford United reach the Championship for the first time in 25 years, defeating favourites Bolton Wanderers. Murphy concluded the season with 10 goals and six assists, which drew the attention of second-tier clubs.
The Sun reported in April that Murphy was being watched by the Baggies, Southampton, QPR, Sunderland, and Hull City. Minnesota United of the MLS are also believed to be interested.
I want to play as high as possible. “I believe I owe it to myself, my family, and the club,” Murphy told the Oxford Mail.
We’re in the Championship now, so let’s see what happens.
I just want to take my mind off everything. It’s been a long season, a tough season, and I just want to enjoy myself.
Murphy is out of contract this summer, and he has yet to decide whether he will stay with Oxford. He considered retiring before joining them, but he has discovered that he enjoys football again, and he wants to play at the best level possible.
Southampton would be able to provide that if they defeat Leeds United in the play-off final on Sunday. West Brom competed in the Championship play-offs with Hull, finishing eighth, while Sunderland finished mid-table and QPR had a strong finish to the season.
Des Buckingham, whom Murphy has praised, is eager to extend his tenure at the Kassam Stadium. In an April interview, Murphy stated that he ‘liked’ Buckingham and that his style of play and position were ideal for him.
“We’ll do everything we can to keep Josh here,” Buckingham stated.
“He’s a beautiful person, a great player, and he fits the way we want to do things. We’ll do what we can and see where it takes us.
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