The Chelsea winger spoke to a former – and new teammate – about joining Newcastle United on loan.
Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu has revealed to NUTV that he has briefed new signing Kenedy about what to expect at St James’ Park.
The versatile Brazilian became Newcastle’s first signing of the January transfer window when he joined on loan from Chelsea for the remainder of the season earlier this week.
Atsu was on Chelsea’s books at the same time as Kenedy, although, like the 21-year-old, never got a fair crack at the first team at Stamford Bridge.
However, the Ghanaian has promised Newcastle’s new arrival that he will get the backing of Rafael Benitez and the club’s fans if he gets his hed down.
“He was asking to know more about the club,” Atsu told NUTV. “I said: ‘It’s a fantastic club with the fans behind us. We have a great coach who also likes young players.’
“If he works hard, he’s going to play, for sure. He wants to play. He wants to work hard. This is the reason why he came to Newcastle. He wants to help the club.
“He’s determined to make sure he’s playing. I believe with his quality, and the hard work and determination – Rafa is a fair coach, so he will give him a chance.”
Kenedy is ineligible to face his parent club in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, so is in line for his Magpies debut when they host Burnley on January 31.
He has not featured for Chelsea at all in the Premier League this season, but has made five appearances in cup competitions and scored in a 5-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
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