Rafa Benitez will be extremely pleased with the Brazilian’s Newcastle United debut and will hope for much more to come.
Newcastle United loan star Kenedy, 21, well and truly announced himself to the St. James’s Park faithful after a highly impressive debut display.
With nearly every touch of the ball the Brazilian was getting supporters on their feet, assisting the only Newcastle goal on the night while also winning a penalty which Joselu went on to miss.
Kenedy looked a real live wire from the moment the game began to the minute he was substituted and he looks like the exact player manager Rafa Benitez has been after to help inspire the struggling squad to some stronger performances.
With limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge, like any Chelsea youngster, the move to Newcastle may be exactly what the Kenedy needs to help establish himself as a Premier League star.
Kenedy started on the left but was clearly given the freedom to roam by his manager, often popping up on the right flank or in more central positions.
Having captured Leicester forward Islam Slimani in the latter stages of the January window, Benitez’s attacking options are definitely looking healthier than before and, with Kenedy’s energy, we could see a different Newcastle in the coming months.
The 21-year-old could not have done much more to help his new side win. If anything, he should have claimed the penalty which he won for himself.
Besides the goal and the missed penalty Kenedy also created Newcastle’s best chance, curling a wonderful shot with his left foot from outside the box, only for it to deflect off the post.
According to reports in the Northern Echo, the Chelsea loanee is open to a permanent switch to Tyneside should his current deal be a success and he could play an integral part in Benitez’s transformation of the Toon.
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