LIAM Manning has praised Josh Murphy for the manner in which he has forced his way into the Oxford United squad.

Prior to last weekend, the 28-year-old winger had only played for the U’s in cup competitions this season.

However, he made a telling impact from the bench against Exeter City after winning the penalty which Cameron Brannagan converted to make it 3-0 in stoppage time at the Kassam Stadium.

READ ALSO: Oxford United face anxious wait on Kyle Edwards’ hamstring injury

In the win at Stevenage yesterday, Murphy made another significant contribution as a substitute.

After receiving the ball from a short corner, the winger squirmed his way to the byline, before standing up a cross for Elliott Moore to nod home and make it 3-1 to United.

U’s head coach Manning applauded Murphy for biding his time and taking the opportunity when it arose.

“The last two games, he’s had a huge impact. I have a good relationship with Josh, I’ve got a huge amount of time for him,” said Manning.

“We had a discussion in the summer and I can’t commend him enough for getting his head down, working, turning up and having an impact in training.

“Ultimately it’s on him. He’s forced his way into the team and I’m delighted for him and the group. Long may it continue.”

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