Swindon add former Aston Villa forward Rushian Hepburn-Murphy

Swindon Town have completed the signing of 24-year-old forward Rushian Hepburn-Murphy on a permanent deal. Total Sport’s Joe Acklam reports on the signing.

The England Youth international came through the ranks at Aston Villa and made 13 appearances for his boyhood club, as well as having loan spells with Cambridge United, Tranmere Rovers, and Derby County before leaving in 2020.

Hepburn-Murphy then made the move to Cypriot outfit Pafos, impressing early as he scored seven goals in one pre-season match, and went on to score five and assist four in his debut season in the Cypriot First Division.

The versatile attacker is capable of playing all across the front line and will add another dimension to the Swindon forward line.

Hepburn-Murphy spoke to club media upon signing: “I’m really excited to be here and really looking forward to the challenge ahead. The team did really well last season and I want to help them build on that.

“I really like the way they this team plays football. It really suits me and hopefully I can fit in and get regular games under my belt.

“I’m ready to step up and embrace first-team football again. I’m hungry for goals and can’t wait to get going and play in front of the fans.”

Scott Lindsey said of his new attacker: “Rushian is a top player and we are delighted to have him sign with us on a permanent deal.

“He can play across the front line, in the middle or out wide. He’s extremely quick and a really good finisher. He’s an exciter and an igniter and will no doubt get fans up and sat on the edge of their seats.

“Coming here with Premier League experience at such a young age will give him the confidence to perform in League Two, and I’m looking forward to seeing him achieve great things here.”

Technical Director Sandro Di Michele added: “Rushian is incredibly versatile and extremely quick with his best years ahead of him in my opinion.

“He’s a really exciting prospect that gives us something a little different in the squad which is really important for us.

“His attributes in terms of talent were recognised at a young age at Aston Villa and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can achieve here at The County Ground.”