Daryl Murphy turns 34 in just over a week. Under the infamous Mike Ashey transfer policy, nobody expected the Waterford-born striker to be a part of Newcastle United’s promotion push under Rafa Benítez; not even the man himself.

“I wouldn’t have believed you a few years ago if you’d told me I’d be playing for Newcastle one day,” he told the Chronicle.

He wasn’t the only one shocked by Rafa’s decision to take a gamble on an ageing striker; plenty of Newcastle fans questioned the acquisition during the summer.

During five seasons at Ipswich Town, Murphy scored 67 goals in 225 appearances, with 50 of those coming in the last three seasons. Benítez handed the Irishman a two-year-deal for a reason.

Yes, he’s coming to the end of his career, but Daryl Murphy is an expert Championship striker. He has been an exemplary pro in waiting for his chance at United and when it came, it was grasped with both hands.

The Irishman scored on his debut against Birmignham, and two crucial goals followed.

Rotherham came to St. James’ Park and were resilient. On a frustrating afternoon for the Magpies, Murphy netted the opening goal and allowed the floodgates to open.

It was at Griffin Park where Murphy scored an unlikely goal against Brentford, a team who at 1-1, looked like netting the winner.

Ayoze Perez whipped in a sumptuous cross and Murphy used his intelligence and experience to make a darting run across the box and deftly head the ball into the bottom right corner, leaving Daniel Bentley helpless.

Three goals in three games. Rafa Benítez’s judgement was spot on and the former Sunderland player was fast becoming a fan favourite on Tyneside.

Newcastle spent £3m on Murphy’s services; a drop in the ocean compared to the potential financial rewards of a return to the Premier League.

Since then, he has acted as a useful option on United’s bench. At 33, Murphy isn’t going to last 90 minutes and having him as an impact substitution is a great weapon, as many saw on Tuesday night against Brighton.

Newcastle were 1-0 down and at 70 minutes, even a draw looked an unlikely outcome. United weren’t testing David Stockdale enough, until Murphy’s introduction.

A powerful, experienced striker replaced Yoan Gouffran; a utility man who lacks the clever movement and positioning of a typical Championship striker.

Ask any Newcastle fan; Daryl Murphy changed the outcome of that match. His presence immediately caused confusion in the Albion defence and he acted as a focal point for most attacks.

Murphy would walk into most Championship starting elevens and that says a lot about how important he could be in United’d last twelve games of the season.

He represents good value for money and is a prime example of how young players with plenty of potential won’t guarantee success.

Sometimes, you just need an old head to steer the boat.