Shaun Murphy

Murphy had a superb season for Sheffield United in the centre of defence in 2000-01 when he became the Blades first ever-present for ten years and signed a further three-year contract midway through the campaign. His understanding with Lee Sandford and then Keith Curle was excellent while he showed perfect timing and his interceptions and aerial ability were of a high standard. A constant danger in the opposition penalty area as his tally of five goals indicates, he was rewarded for his efforts by being voted supporters' club 'Player of the Year'. He added further caps to his international tally for Australia, featuring in the prestigious Confederations Cup tournament when he netted the winner in the third-place play-off tie against Brazil.

Murphy's contract with Sheffield United was cancelled in July 2003, allowing him to return to Australia.