Former Newcastle loanee Kenedy makes shock Chelsea return

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Newcastle United fans watching the Luton Town vs Chelsea game last night will have been shocked to see ex-Magpie Kenedy in action.

The Brazilian started at left wing-back for the Blues, as they made it through to the FA Cup quarter finals. It wasn’t easy though, with Thomas Tuchel’s side falling behind twice.

Chelsea got the win they needed, and Kenedy made his first appearance in English football since his last game for Newcastle.

The last time he played a domestic game in England before last night was May 12th 2019. He played the last nine minutes of Rafa Benitez’s final game as Newcastle manager – a 4-0 win away to Fulham.

First Chelsea appearance January 2018 for Kenedy

Since his Newcastle exit, the 26-year-old has continued to spend his days out on loan, and joined Brazilian side Flamengo last August. However, he was recalled by Chelsea in January due to injuries to Ben Chilwell and Reece James.

Kenedy was brought back to beef up Tuchel’s options on the left, but probably never expected to feature for the world and European champions.

But he started against Luton, playing 61 minutes before he was replaced by Christian Pulisic. Kenedy hardly set the world alight with his performance, struggling to get into the game in the first half.

He did nearly score, but his wicked effort was well saved by Luton stopper Harry Isted.

It was a real shock to turn on BBC last night and see Kenedy on the pitch. And it wouldn’t be a surprise if it’s the last time he’s seen in a Chelsea shirt.

Ex-Newcastle man needs a new permanent home

But his appearance served as a reminder for his time with the Magpies.

He initially showed promise at Newcastle and looked like he had a home at St James’ Park. But his second spell on loan was a disaster.

If he’d performed better in his second season with Newcastle, perhaps he would’ve been signed permanently.

But that obviously didn’t happen, and his career remains in limbo. Kenedy clearly has natural ability, but lacks consistency. He needs to find a permanent home away from Chelsea and get his career back on track.

But that permanent home won’t be Newcastle.