Kenedy not ruling out a Toon return

Newcastle United celebrate lifting the Championship trophy. Below left, Rafa Benitez and inset right, managing-director Lee Charnley KENEDY has hinted he may be open to returning to Newcastle United again in the future by stating: “Maybe one day I will be back.”

The 22-year-old enjoyed a successful half-season loan spell on Tyneside after joining the Magpies from Chelsea in January.

However, after two goals and two assists in 13 appearances, he has now returned to west London and was training with the Blues ahead of this evening’s FA Cup final against Manchester United at Wembley.

Newcastle do not have an option to buy the Brazilian, although it is understood Rafa Benitez is keen to explore the possibility of bringing Kenedy to St James’ Park again next season – be it on loan or as part of a permanent deal.

Kenedy said: “I was glad to come here to Newcastle, one of the biggest clubs in England, and I really appreciated the chance to play.

“I would like to thank Rafa Benitez because he trusted in me. I really enjoyed my time there – it was very good.

“All the players, all the staff, they made me feel at home. I felt good.

“I gained confidence from the amazing support and I really enjoyed it. Maybe one day I will be back.”

In January, Kenedy made his Magpies debut during the 1-1 draw with Burnley on transfer deadline day.

The winger provided an assist for Jamaal Lascelles’ opener and admits from that moment on he developed an admiration for the passionate Newcastle support base.

Kenedy added: “The first game – my debut – was really, really good because I did not expect something like that.

“The game against Leicester was amazing because I had never seen support like that.

“The fans were really amazing. I appreciate that because I did not expect that.

“The fans were something different. I felt honoured to be here- it was something really special and I am a fan of Newcastle’s fans.”