Bohs 'keeper Murphy into Irish squad
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On the day when his club, Bohemians, will be crowned League champions for the second consecutive year, goalkeeper Brian Murphy has today been drafted into the Republic of Ireland squad to face France in the World Cup qualifying play-offs as back-up to number one Shay Given.
An injury to Coventry City's Keiren Westwood has led to the dramatic call up for Waterford native Murphy, who has long been recognised as the best 'keeper in the domestic league. Calls for the former Manchester City squad member's form to be acknowledged with an international call-up have been expressed for some time.
Murphy was an integral part of Bohemians' double-winning side in 2008 and became the first goalkeeper to be awarded the League of Ireland Player of the Year for his performances. This season, he has kept 22 clean sheets on Bohemians' march to an historic retention of the title.
Ironically, though, the call-up comes as Murphy prepares for what probably will be his last game in the domestic league, as his contract with Pat Fenlon's side expires at the season's end tonight, and a move to Championship strugglers Ipswich Town is anticipated.
An injury to Coventry City's Keiren Westwood has led to the dramatic call up for Waterford native Murphy, who has long been recognised as the best 'keeper in the domestic league. Calls for the former Manchester City squad member's form to be acknowledged with an international call-up have been expressed for some time.
Murphy was an integral part of Bohemians' double-winning side in 2008 and became the first goalkeeper to be awarded the League of Ireland Player of the Year for his performances. This season, he has kept 22 clean sheets on Bohemians' march to an historic retention of the title.
Ironically, though, the call-up comes as Murphy prepares for what probably will be his last game in the domestic league, as his contract with Pat Fenlon's side expires at the season's end tonight, and a move to Championship strugglers Ipswich Town is anticipated.
About Alan Dooley
is one of Extratime's longest serving contributors. Based in County Galway, Alan has been following the League of Ireland since the mid-1980s. His first memory of the drama of domestic football was Vinny Arkins, then … View Full Profile