Last year he managed just eight RaboDirect PRO12 appearances but back to fitness this time around he has already matched that total, with the Munstermen sitting top of the table after 12 rounds.
Last weekend he claimed his second European Cup try of the season, as Munster saw off Edinburgh 38-6 to clinch a home quarter-final against Toulouse.
And the winger, who is into the final season of the two-year deal he signed in March 2012, believes he is getting near his best at what is an important time for both club and player.
"I think I'm back to where I was when I first arrived," Murphy told the Irish Independent.
"I showed glimpses of what I can do the year Tony McGahan left, but last year I couldn't get a run of games because of injury.
"This year I just got as fit as I could and worked extra hard in pre-season - and it has paid off.
"I feel like I still have more improvements to make to reach where I want to get to, but I am happy where I'm at. I'm in a really good head space and I'm really enjoying my rugby.
"I knew it would be a very difficult year come contract time if I didn't perform. Trying to get something anyway (is tough), but if I didn't impress, there was no way I was going to get the chance to stay here.
"I needed to put my best foot forward and I think I've done that so far, but nothing is won in January."
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