How the Irish fared: Daryl Murphy is ‘a great pro’, says Rafa Benitez

Rafa Benitez hailed Daryl Murphy as “a great professional” after the striker scored his first goal for Newcastle in Saturday’s FA Cup clash at Birmingham.

Murphy, whose only previous goal this season came in Ireland’s 2-2 draw away to Serbia, has had limited opportunities since joining the Magpies from Ipswich last August.

But he made the most of his second start for the Toon Army by opening the scoring after just five minutes. However, Newcastle were unable to retain their advantage and a 1-1 draw means an unwelcome replay will be needed.