Ipswich v Brighton: Daryl Murphy believes Town fans are finally seeing the best of him – and it is all thanks to having a quiet word with Mick McCarthy.

The Republic of Ireland international, in his third loan spell in Suffolk, revealed that he went to see the new Blues boss to tell him that he wanted a run upfront after Paul Jewell largely used him at left-wing.

Murphy has since flourished, a perfect foil for goal machine DJ Campbell while also weighing in with five goals.

He said: “I made no secret of the fact I wanted to play as a striker and thankfully the manager has given me a chance.

“I had a chat with him when he came here and he told me that he didn’t see me as a left midfielder, he knew I wanted to play as a striker.

“I have scored a few in the past few weeks, which I am happy about, but winning is the main thing.”

Out of contract in the summer, Murphy admits he is not worrying about what the future might hold, at Ipswich or elsewhere.

He is simply loving the present day, explaining: “This is the best I have played in any of my spells at Ipswich. It is a confidence thing, when you are winning you have my confidence in yourself and the team.

“The goals have also helped – I have always had confidence I could score goals if I was played as a striker.”

And of today’s opponents Brighton, Murphy added: “You know what to expect from them.

“They are a good passing team who will look to play through you. They have got some very good players who can hurt you but with the form we have been in, we don’t fear anyone – especially at home.”