Morecambe boss Bentley hails returning captain Murphy

Morecambe boss Jim Bentley has hailed his returning captain Peter Murphy.
Peter Murphy on the ball against Dagenham.Peter Murphy on the ball against Dagenham.
Peter Murphy on the ball against Dagenham.

The central midfielder played his first 90 minutes since returning from injury in the 1-0 victory over Dagenham.

The summer signing from Wycombe damaged knee ligaments at Hartlepool on the opening day of the season before suffering a freak pulmonary embolism.

Murphy is back now though and Bentley couldn’t be happier.

Jim Bentley and Kevin Ellison celebrate the win over Dagenham.Jim Bentley and Kevin Ellison celebrate the win over Dagenham.
Jim Bentley and Kevin Ellison celebrate the win over Dagenham.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Shrimps boss said: “He’s come back and had a couple of substitute appearances which has built him up nicely.

“You can’t just expect him to come back after four and a half months and flog him.

“He led by example on Tuesday. He’s a good character and he’s good in the dressing room.

“He’s aggressive with his play but played some nice football as well, getting on the end of a couple of crosses.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“To last the 90 minutes after being out for so long was great, it was a captain’s performance.”

Bentley was not just pleased with Murphy but his experienced spine as Adam Dugdale returned at the back and Kevin Ellison impressed up front.

The Shrimps boss said: “Right through the spine we had character.

“I thought Dugdale came in and did well, playing his first 90 in a long time.

“There was Peter in the middle of the park and I thought big Kevin Ellison led by example as well.

“He’s our most experienced pro and the work rate he showed and the desire he showed was excellent.”