Young Guns – Arsenal Reserves & Youth News

England Under 19 international Rhys Murphy is considered one of England’s most lethal strikers when fully fit, yet the Brighton-born prospect has been ravaged by injury throughout his spell with the Gunners.

As a schoolboy Rhys went through a phenomenal period where he bagged a brace in every game for five fixtures, and soon became the star of the England Youth Team. He shone at the Under 17 World Cup and began the 2007-2008 campaign in lethal form but after sustaining the hernia injury, he missed four months after surgery.

His return was much needed for both the Under 18’s and Reserves, as they entered the business end of the season in a goal shy manner. Strikes against Portsmouth and a double from the bench at home to Derby announced his return to fitness, with a handful more as Bould’s outfit won Academy Group A.

The signing of a professional contract was celebrated with a composed finish against Boreham Wood, setting him up for an exciting 2008-2009 season. He began the term well and grew and grew as the campaign hit top gear. In December he hit three goals in two Under 18 matches, including two strikes which twice brought his side level in the opening round of the F.A Cup.

However, injuries again struck Murphy. He missed part of the Youth Cup run but returned with a cameo appearance against Tottenham where he scored in front of thousands at White Hart Lane. He was again the thorn in Spurs’ side as he scored the only goal in the Premier Academy League final.

In between securing the domestic double, Rhys bagged a brace against Holland Under 19′s to seal a fantastic win. For both club and country the striker is one of the most lethal around. If only he could avoid those troublesome injuries.

Name: Rhys Murphy
Nickname: ‘Murfs’
Age: 18
Nationality: English
International: Under 19
Position: Striker
Height: 182cm
Previous Clubs: None
Contract: Professional