Emily Murphy wins women's Sela Player of the Month award for March | OneFootball

The January signing has made an instant impact since swapping North Carolina for the North East, having contributed a goal and four assists in her opening six appearances for the Magpies.

A graduate of Chelsea Women's Youth Academy, the 22-year-old is seamlessly readapting to English football following a stint in the American college system with North Carolina Tar Heels and Wake Forest Demon Deacons.

"I still watched a lot of English football in the US, mostly WSL and Championship games, so it's just been a case of fine-tuning since returning to the UK," she explained.

"I feel really confident, love the freedom that the manager is giving me and I'm honestly just enjoying my football: it's nice that this award has followed as a result."

Despite having tasted sporting culture on both sides of the Atlantic, the Republic of Ireland international admits that the Tyne-Wear derby in March was the most eye-opening experience of her career so far.

"I've definitely never felt anything like the passion of the Geordies," she added. "There were derbies in the US and I've played internationally too, but nothing can compete with the noise at St. James' Park.

"Experiencing the goal and winning the game (against Sunderland Women) was unbelievable, but just walking out in front of that many people - with my mum and dad in the stands - was the highlight of my career."

Collecting the Sela Player of the Month accolade after starting each game in March, Murphy reiterated a determination to continue establishing herself as a key member of the squad.

"Personally, I want to keep winning games and finish as high as we possibly can as a club," she said. "While I appreciate being named Player of the Month, I'm just determined to be the best teammate possible whenever I step on the pitch.

"I think as a team we wanted a few more results this month. However, there are plenty of positives that we can build on in April. We're still new to the Championship but keen to progress and continue to bring success to the club."