Born in Waterford, Ireland, Daryl Murphy progressed through the academy ranks at Southend United and Luton Town before signing for Waterford United in 2002. 

Spending three years impressing with his hometown club, a move to the Premier League surfaced in the summer of 2005, with Murphy signing a two-year deal with Sunderland.

Murphy stayed with the Wearsiders for five years, accumulating over 100 appearances in the process, with a move to Celtic emerging as the next step for the powerful forward.

After a not so productive first year north of the border, Murphy joined Ipswich Town on loan during the 2011/12 campaign and then did the same the following campaign.

After what was a third temporary stint at Portman Road, Ipswich opted to secure the services of the frontman on a permanent deal in the summer of 2013.

Proceeding to enjoy three very positive years with the Tractor Boys, which included the division's golden boot award during the 2014/15 campaign, Newcastle United completed a move for Murphy late during the summer transfer window in 2016.

He netted six times in 18 appearances as the Magpies won promotion back to the Premier League, with a move to Nottingham Forest coming to fruition in 2017.

In two years of Championship football with the Reds, Murphy managed 11 goals in 60 appearances, paving the way for a move to then-League One club Bolton Wanderers.

During a season that ultimately ended in relegation for the Trotters, Murphy netted eight goals and provided two assists.

Murphy was one of 14 players who was released by Bolton at the end of that campaign.

In 2020, Murphy secured a move back to his hometown club Waterford, however, he was unable to manage many games during his return.

Scoring over 100 goals in the Football League and netting three times in 32 appearances for the Republic of Ireland, Murphy's playing career officially came to an end in early 2021.