Danny Murphy was a regular for England U-21 and joined Liverpool as a promising talent. His earlier performances were marked by his excellent passing and accuracy in dead-ball situations. After the initial promise, Murphy struggled with his consistency and subsequently found himself out-of-favour with the manager.

The 1999/2000 season began bleakly for the player. He was only used in the Worthington Cup and had to spend his time in the reserves. For a player tipped for England stardom, it seemed to be a case of talent wasted. In spite of a good string of performances in the Worthington Cup, plus a hatful of goals in that competition, Murphy was overlooked for the Reds' league games.

Feeling desperate, Murphy requested to be put on the transfer list and Houllier relented without a fuss. Fortunately, things have turned for the better. Murphy has since played a number of league games and has been given his chance to shine. The player has seldom disappointed and it is fair to say that he isnow firmly in the manager's plans. Murphy is now looking forward to take his chances having been given more opportunities than before.