Speaking to The Blue Print’s Andrew Maher and stand-in co-host David Rhys-Jones, Murphy, who assumed the stand-in captaincy when Judd was suspended following the 16th round North Melbourne match, said that he’d relished the opportunity to lead.
“With ‘Juddy’ obviously missing a month of footy I’ve had it for the past three weeks, although I’ve been working on my leadership skills all year,” Murphy said.
“I’ve enjoyed it. To be given the reins to toss the coin has been a new thing, but I’ve been learning each week, I’ve been supported pretty well by Andy Carrazzo, Heath Scotland and ‘Gibbsy’ (Bryce Gibbs) . . . and it’s been good bringing a young group through.”
When asked if he harboured an ambition to eventually assume the captaincy from Judd, the 25 year-old Murphy said that while he was comfortable in his current role and had served as captain throughout his time in junior football, he was also content to remain 2IC.
“Having ‘Juddy’ there means I’ve had a pretty good man to learn from over these past five years and if he’s there for another three or four I’m happy to sit underneath him,” Murphy said.
“But if the time comes it’d be a great opportunity.”
