Jacob Murphy has 'proven he can perform' and merits a two or three-year extension at Newcastle United, according to Kevin Phillips.

Murphy is seemingly in the final months of his current £25,000-per-week contract at St James' Park, although there have been reports his deal is actually one year longer than expected.

Murphy boosting Newcastle's survival push

The Times' Henry Winter noted that his 'resilience echoed all over' in the battling draw against Spurs, with Alan Shearer adding that his display was 'excellent' and that he had tormented Sergio Reguilon.

The following week, Murphy scored a superb goal to haul Newcastle level in a critical game against Burnley, which they eventually won 2-1.

That was the Englishman's third goal of the season, adding to his three assists (via Transfermarkt).

Newcastle have already agreed a contract extension with 30-year-old striker Dwight Gayle and are keen to tie down 32-year-old Federico Fernandez as well.

Phillips acknowledges that the outlook is uncertain on Tyneside, but sees no reason to let Murphy go.

'Jacob Murphy has done very well when called upon'

"I think Newcastle should offer him a new deal but a lot depends on what has been made available to Bruce in the summer and if Bruce will even be there beyond the summer," he told Football Insider.

"Is he going to get the money to be able to enhance the squad?

"Jacob Murphy has done very well when called upon this season.

"At Newcastle he has showed that he has good quality. Why would they not want to try and re-sign him?

"Why not offer someone who knows the club and has proven that he can perform a new deal?

"I would get him tied down to a two or three-year extension."

Club correspondent Lee Ryder suggested earlier this month that it could cost the Magpies as much as £25million to replace 'a player of his age and experience'.

It would, therefore, be 'stupid not to give him a new deal'.

Transfer Tavern verdict

Murphy, to his credit, hasn't looked at all distracted even amid the possibility that he'll be left without a club come this summer.

Instead, he's been a picture of focus, stepping up a gear to prove his worth to Newcastle in crucial moments, such as the win against Burnley.

As Ryder notes, it makes infinite sense to retain him in a pandemic-hit market. He can be a valuable part of this squad going forward.

In other news, Newcastle have been backed to strike a deal for another Englishman.