Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has explained Kenedy’s absence against Everton, claiming that the Brazilian is touch and go to play this weekend.
The 22-year old Chelsea loanee sat out at Goodison Park as his side drew 1-1, having picked up a knock in training.
Now Benitez is sweating over the fitness of the Brazilian wide man, with the Magpies due to host Wolves at St James’ Park on Sunday.
When asked for an update on Kenedy’s condition, as quoted by the Chronicle, Benitez said:
He has a problem with his toe.
He couldn’t put his boots on and he couldn’t train in the last couple of days.
Benitez did however praise Jacob Murphy and Christian Atsu, who started in the wide positions for Newcastle against the Toffees. Benitez continued:
Jacob Murphy and Atsu were really good because defending all the time and, after, attacking, you need the legs. The goal was a great counter attack.
It’s a pity because we have two or three situations with Atsu, one v one, that we didn’t find this final pass to make the difference.
But, again, I will say that when you get a point against a good team, away from home, you have to be pleased.
