TRANMERE Rovers gloveman Joe Murphy has signed a new one year contract which will see him take up the combined roles of goalkeeper and goalkeeping coach.

The 40-year-old returned to Tranmere in August 2020 after previously spending four seasons at Prenton Park from 1998 until 2002.  

Last season Murphy kept nine clean sheets in 17 appearances, conceding just 10 goals and helping to steer Tranmere to having the best defensive record in the EFL.

Alongside his playing 24 year career, the Irishman has recently set up a goalkeeping academy in Wirral. 

After signing his new contract, Murphy, said: “I’m delighted. I love being back here and I just want to repay the club who have done so much for me.

“I’ve always wanted to be a coach and I’ve always analysed goalkeepers so I feel this is a natural progression for me. I’m still registered as a player and still want to play as much as I can and push whoever is going to be here.

“I think everything we’ve got here is driven towards success so I’m looking forward to working with the manager and the staff to hopefully have a successful season”

Rovers boss Micky Mellon said: "We've seen the combined keeper/coach role work well at Tranmere before, when such a great partnership was built between Scotty Davies and Iain Turner.  Joe is still a fantastic keeper himself but this will also enable him to pass on his vast knowledge and experience to our other keepers, whilst still getting game time."

Murphy's appointment means Lee Jones is leaving the club after two seasons as goalkeeper coach.