Chelsea midfielder Kenedy has admitted the opportunity to work with "fantastic" Rafa Benitez was a key reason behind his decision to move to Newcastle.
The 21-year-old Brazilian has sealed a loan move to St James' Park until the end of the season, where he will aim to play regularly after making just five starts, all in the Cup competitions, for Chelsea this season.
Kenedy, who saw a loan move to Watford end six months early last term due to a knee injury and a lack of game time, hopes his switch to Newcastle will prove beneficial to his career because of the chance to work with Benitez.
He told Newcastle's official website: "I’m so happy with this opportunity at Newcastle. They’ve opened the door to me to come here, show my potential and come and play for Newcastle.
"It’s a traditional club and Rafa Benitez is a fantastic, amazing coach. Christian Atsu, as well – we trained together at Chelsea and know each other, and he said good things about the club. So it was easy to take this decision."
Benitez, whose Newcastle side currently lie in 15th place in the Premier League table, will face Chelsea in the FA Cup fourth round at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Kenedy will be ineligible to play, however, but Benitez expressed his delight at signing a player who can play anywhere on the left flank.
"Kenedy is a player that we have been following since the summer," Benitez said.
"The reason we are interested is that he can play in several positions – as a winger, a wing back and also as an offensive left full back, so he gives the team many options.
"He has a great left foot and good energy. He is still a young player but he has some experience already in the Premier League and that will help with his adaptation. We welcome him to Newcastle United."
