Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy makes final decision on representing Nigeria

The winger has played for England U21 and is also eligible for the Republic of Ireland.

Newcastle United winger Jacob Murphy has decided against switching his international allegiance to Nigeria, despite interest from the Super Eagles, according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail.

The 29-year-old has played for England at various youth levels but is also eligible to represent Nigeria through his father and the Republic of Ireland through his mother.

“Jacob Murphy will politely decline an approach from Nigeria to switch his international allegiance,” Hope wrote.

Murphy has been in strong form this season, scoring five goals and notching nine assists across all competitions for Newcastle.

His performances have drawn interest from Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, who reached out to Murphy a few days ago in an attempt to secure Murphy for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Instead, the winger will focus on club performances while keeping the door open for a potential England or, most probably, Republic of Ireland call-up which should also give him a chance to compete in future international tournaments.

“That would give Murphy the chance to play at next year’s World Cup, but we understand he will not be joining the Nigeria squad any time soon,” Hope reported.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has praised Murphy’s impact this season, particularly in supporting striker Alexander Isak.

“(Murphy) has been very, very important and probably more than people realize,” Howe said. “Isak probably owes him the majority of his goals with his crossing ability, which has always been very strong.

After three transfer windows without a first-team addition, Newcastle’s recruitment team has begun outlining plans to add “a centre-half, right winger, central striker, and goalkeeper,” according to Taylor.

The club is in a strong financial position following the January sales of Miguel Almirón and Lloyd Kelly, ensuring new signings can be made without needing to offload top players.