Murphy admits anger over Benitez

Last updated : 01 February 2005 By Rich Middleton
Murphy, who had been a first team regular under Gerard Houllier, said he felt upset at the way he had been treated by Benitez, but added that he now feels more settled both on and off the pitch with life in London.

He said: "I'll never thank Benitez for wanting to get rid of me and I was upset at the time, I don't mind admitting that. It was something I didn't expect.

"I thought about fighting for my place. But I came to the conclusion that do I want to be playing under a manager that doesn't have 100 percent confidence or belief in me?

"Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't regret leaving. I feel now at Charlton I'm near my best again. Not quite where I want to be, but not far off. I feel physically I'm at my best, mentally I feel settled, and I'm settled off the pitch," he added.