Josh Murphy Reflects on Pompey Journey, Oxford Departure, and Wembley Triumph

Josh Murphy Reflects on a Memorable Wembley Experience

A sunny May day in Wembley can feel a long time away once the reality of next season kicks in. For Josh Murphy, memories of his performance at Wembley still bring a smile to his face, even if it wasn't quite perfect in his eyes. "Maybe if I'd scored a hat-trick," he tells Sky Sports with a laugh.

The winger, then playing for Oxford, scored both goals in an unexpected triumph against Bolton, securing promotion to the Championship. "Then it would have been the most perfect day. But the whole day in itself was surreal, and something that will just stick with me forever."

Transition to Portsmouth

Championship highlights are a big deal for players, and life moves fast in this league. Soon, Murphy, now 29, found himself heading to Portsmouth, who had secured automatic promotion ahead of the play-off-winning U's.

As someone who grew up watching football during the Barclays era, a move to Fratton Park was an opportunity that felt too good to miss. "I loved Oxford to bits and I wish them all the best," Murphy says. "I really enjoyed my time there, but I wanted a new challenge, and it was exciting coming here."

Exciting Challenges Ahead

Murphy recalls his experience during a match at Portsmouth at the end of the last season where the atmosphere was electric. "It felt like a really good fit. I know the manager and what he wanted to do. They're effectively a sleeping giant, they've got massive aspirations, and I want to be a part of that journey. It's a new challenge for me here and I'm just really excited to kick on."

Struggles in the Early Games

Admittedly, it has not been the perfect start for Murphy or Pompey. He missed the first few games of the season due to injury, and the club is yet to win any of their first seven matches. The fixture list has not been kind, with a brutal beginning that has seen them meet all three relegated clubs along with Leeds, Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and West Brom.

The upcoming trip to Stoke represents an opportunity to turn things around after enduring four draws and three defeats. "We've dropped about seven points after the 90th minute," laments Murphy. Portsmouth has conceded last-minute goals against Leeds, Boro, and Burnley so far. "That's been frustrating because the league position probably doesn't show how well we've done."

Finding the Path to Victory

Murphy stresses the need for Portsmouth to become "a bit more streetwise" to seal games effectively. "Hopefully, we can get the first win over the line soon." As the optimism builds, the visit from his old club Oxford to Fratton Park will surely bring added excitement and motivation for Murphy and the team.

Follow the Action

For more updates on the Championship and to catch all the action, follow the Sky Sports Essential EFL podcast, covering everything from fixtures to player performances.

By following these developments and keeping an eye on Murphy's career journey, fans can look forward to thrilling moments in the upcoming matches.