Josh Murphy is enjoying his partnership with Joe Bennett on Oxford United’s left flank.
The two players spent three seasons together at Cardiff City, when Murphy moved for a reputed £11 million from Norwich City in June 2018.
Bennett and Murphy combined for 208 appearances over three seasons before leaving Cardiff, with Murphy initially loaned out to Preston North End.
Murphy said of his reunion with Bennett and their connection down the U’s left: “I really enjoy playing with Joe. We’re good friends and go on vacation together.
“Having spent a couple of seasons together at Cardiff has helped us understand one other’s games.
“He lets me play freely and gives me the ball early so that I can express myself moving forward.
“He provides me the best chance to get at them. I enjoy playing with him, and I believe we strike a good balance.
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United’s head coach, Des Buckingham, is relishing the challenge at left back, with Bennett and Greg Leigh to pick from.
He stated following Saturday’s win over Exeter City: “It’s a good problem to have down that left.” We will select a team that we believe is suitable for the game.
“Against certain opponents, we know what Greg gives us and the benefits we can get that Joe does not provide.
“We felt that Joe could give us a little more down that left-hand side, and we thought the connection with Murph would be very significant. They’re really comfortable playing together.
“It’s a good problem to have, and both equally have been involved to get us where we are.”
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