MURPHY REPAYS McCARTHY'S FAITH

MICK McCarthy believes his caring approach has been the key to Josh Murphy rediscovering his form for Cardiff City.

- James Candy

The forward scored 39 seconds into the second-half after Kieffer Moore’s early penalty, with late strikes from Marlon Pack and Mark Harris sealing the thrashing of Preston North End.

The hosts did have Dillon Phillips to thank though, with the keeper saving two second-half penalties in quick succession.

Murphy has been a central figure for McCarthy after playing a bit-part role under Neil Harris.

And Bluebirds boss McCarthy believes Murphy will continue to flourish.

“I put an arm around him to start with, I felt he needed a bit of loving to be quite honest,” he said.

“And, do you know what? He has bought into every single thing I have asked of him and tried to help him with. And I’m glad he’s reaping the rewards, he’s a lovely kid.