JOSH Murphy maintained belief in himself and his ability, despite a rough period which included being told to find a new club this time last year.

Of the winger’s nine appearances under former Oxford United head coach Liam Manning at the back end of last season, five were starts, with the other four coming from the bench.

Murphy didn’t play the full 90 minutes in any of his five starts, and looked a player short on confidence.

He has though blossomed under the guidance of Des Buckingham in recent weeks and months, turning a leaf after a rocky period in his career.

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“My brother [Newcastle United winger Jacob Murphy] sent a text to our family group chat. This time last year, I got told to find another club, and now I’ve just got the club promoted. I’m just lost for words,” said Murphy.

“I always believed in myself. I had a tough couple of years, and it was either sink or swim.

“I remember getting booed off at the end of last season, so it’s been some turnaround.

“I always go out there and try to give my best. The fans don’t see it, but the boys see me day in and day out. I’m always trying to improve and I’m always trying to get better, and doing the extras, and I think the fans don’t see that sometimes.

“That goes for every single player. We’re all here working our socks off, trying to be the best that we can.

“Sometimes we might not be perfect, but that’s what supporters are there for, through thick and thin.

“You’ve seen the fans, they were unbelievable, and to give them such a great day out is what football’s about, so I’m just buzzing for the boys and the fans.”