Leeds Career

Leeds' second signing for the 2008-09 season was Phil Murphy, who returned to the club he had previously enjoyed a spell with at the beginning of his career.  Phil originally came through the Academy ranks and played alongside Tom Palmer at the lower levels at Leeds. Phil always stood out in the Academy and latterly Development sides not least due to his 6' 5'' height. Phil made his debut in at the back end if the 1999-2000 campaign coming off the bench at Waterloo and then cemented his reputation as one of the best up and coming second rows when given the opportunity the following season. That reputation grew even more with the mature performances he put in for the club both in the Premiership and in Europe, especially so when Tom Palmer was injured at the start of the 2002-03 season. Phil left Leeds originally at the end of the 2003-04 season having played 60 games for the club.

Rugby Career

Phil was called into the England U21 tour to the SANZA tournament in the off season leading into the 2001-2002 season. On leaving Leeds Phil Worcester Warriors where he played an integral part in the Worcester squad since joining them on their promotion to the Guinness Premiership for the 2004-05 season. In the four seasons that have followed, he has made 83 appearances for the Warriors.

Personal Details

Phil is known as "Little Murph" and is the younger brother of former Leeds player Chris. The 2001-02 season was the first time that the two brothers had ever played in the same team, with the first game they started together being in the league match away at Newcastle. Like his brother Phil is a massive Hull City football fan.