Waterford United striker Daryl Murphy says he is very much looking forward to returning to Town for a second trial. The Irish U21 international spent a short time with the Blues in early December but his spell was cut short when he picked up a groin injury.

Murphy says he can't wait to show Joe Royle and his staff what he can do: "As soon as I get fit they will organise for me to go back. They want to see me again and I am looking forward to going back.

"Everything was top drawer over there. It's a high standard but all I was missing was a bit of sharpness. If I go over fit, I'd be very confident."

Murphy has a year left on his contract at Waterford United, who play in the Irish Eirecom League.

The striker or midfield player scored 22 goals during the recently ended Irish season, having won six caps with the Ireland U21 side. He moved to Waterford after leaving the Luton Town youth system in 2002.

Murphy, 6ft, failed to make a senior appearance while with the Hatters and was sent out on loan at Harrow Borough prior to his release.

Since moving back to his homeland he has made massive strides and won the Waterford United Supporters' Club Player of the Year award for 2004. The frontman is also one of three players short-listed for the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland (PFAI) Young Player of the Year award

The 21-year-old is currently one of the highest-rated players in Ireland and Manchester United, Manchester City and Scottish Premier League side Livingston have been linked along with Town.

Waterford are determined to get a fee for their top asset, although the Blues will look to try to get him on a free transfer should he impress in his latest trial, perhaps offering the Irish side a potentially lucrative pre-season friendly as part of a deal.

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