England manager Thomas Tuchel was a surprise attendee at St. James' Park on Sunday as Newcastle United dismantled Manchester United 4-1 in a dominant display.

The results pushed Eddie Howe’s team into the Premier League top four as they seek a return to Champions League football next season.

Among the stars on display were a host of England hopefuls, including Nick Pope, Tino Livramento, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, and Kobbie Mainoo, to name a few.

However, the Daily Mail's Craig Hope hinted that Tuchel may have had his eyes on more than just his usual Three Lions squad regulars as the England manager was also closely watching Jacob Murphy.

🇳🇬Nigeria are trying to tempt Jacob Murphy to switch his international allegiance ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Murphy has five goals and nine assists for Newcastle United this season but remains uncapped by England at senior level. pic.twitter.com/sOOxpifNpP

— Dominic Scurr (@DomScurr) February 18, 2025

The Newcastle in-form winger, who continues to impress in what has become a breakout season, is already on the radar of Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.

Super Eagles set to challenge England for Murphy

Murphy’s outstanding form has caught the attention of not just Tuchel, but also Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle, who is reportedly considering the winger for Nigeria’s squad in the upcoming Unity Cup.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Thomas Tuchel here… watching Jacob Murphy?? pic.twitter.com/PUNCkkl41L

— Craig Hope (@CraigHope_DM) April 13, 2025

Born in England to a Nigerian father, Murphy is eligible to represent the three-time African champions, as well as the Republic of Ireland and England.

Although he has represented England at various youth levels, Murphy has never earned a senior cap, making him a prime candidate for a switch in allegiance.

The winger’s dual nationality now places him at the heart of an international tug of war between England and Nigeria.

Murphy’s form bolsters international appeal

As seen on Transfermarkt, Murphy once again proved his value by delivering his 19th goal contribution of the season, an assist for Harvey Barnes’ goal in the 49th minute against Manchester United on Sunday.

The 30-year-old winger’s attacking flair and work rate have played a crucial role in Newcastle’s resurgence, helping the Magpies secure five straight wins in all competitions, including a historic double over Manchester United.

In his 34th appearance of the season, Murphy showcased his versatility and energy before being substituted in the 78th minute for Anthony Gordon.

10 - Jacob Murphy is the first Newcastle United player to assist 10 goals in open play in a Premier League season since Laurent Robert in 2001-02 (11). Creators. pic.twitter.com/pXf4uIH3K4

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 13, 2025

With 8 goals and 11 assists to his name, the Newcastle United winger is in the best form of his career, and his name is now in lights for both club and country.

Murphy could follow in the footsteps of Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman, who all abandoned England to play for the Super Eagles.