OPINION
When Newcastle United fans saw Brazilian maestro Kenedy returning to St James’ Park for a second loan stint last summer they must have thought they had hit the jackpot.
Dazzling the Toon Arm with his silky skills and attacking edge during a six month spell last season, it seemed a no brainer that the Magpies should chase his capture for a full season.
It is therefore quite remarkable at just how far the Chelsea loanee has fallen during the current campaign.
One goal and one assist is all the South American has to show for his 20 Premier League appearances this season and it speaks volumes that he has played just 32 minutes of action in the club’s last seven top flight games.
To suggest that the club should chase his permanent capture would likely have the supporters in the stands bewildered after watching him disappoint time and again – not to mention the fact his signing would cause a hefty dent in the coffers available to Benitez – but the manager looks set to frustrate the fans this summer.
The Chronicle report that the Spaniard believes signing him permanently would allow him to settle on Tyneside and bring the best out of him once again – but it would no doubt be an unpopular deal considering how much he has caused the fans to get frustrated.
The manager is right though – making Newcastle Kenedy’s permanent home means he can focus fully on his game and not about where his future might lie – and if there is anyone who can get the best out of the wide man, it is Benitez.
He must pursue the Brazilian until a deal is done or until it is clear it will not be – for he can be the flyer the Toon Army remember him being.