Daryl Murphy seized the chance to spearhead the Blues’ rapidly-improving season after putting Millwall to the sword, before revealing he was an unlikely hero.

The 29-year-old scored and played his part in both of DJ Campbell’s efforts as Ipswich ended the play-off chasing Lions’ 13-game unbeaten run with a solid 3-0 victory.

Victory also eased Town, revitalised under Mick McCarthy, further away from the Championship drop-zone, ahead of next Saturday’s trip to Leeds.

Murphy looks to be a certain starter in West Yorkshire but admitted his selection to start Saturday’s game, in place of Tyrone Barnett, came as a surprise.

“It was great that I got the nod, I was not expecting it,” said Murphy.

“I’ve been on the bench for the last couple of games and for whatever reason I thought the manager would stick with the side that won at Bolton.

“I have been coming off the bench and making an impact and I wanted to get back in the first team. The manager just told me to express myself and thankfully, I got a goal.”

n For more with Murphy on competition for places, Stephen Henderson’s heroics and fans’ favourite Guirane N’Daw - PLUS five pages of action and reaction from the 3-0 victory over Millwall, see today’s Ipswich Star.

n Get involved with the Ipswich Town webchat, from 1pm today - www.ipswichstar.co.uk