Morecambe boss Bentley hails returning captain Murphy
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.
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Hide AdThe 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.
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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.”