Conte hints at another loan move for Kenedy

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Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has suggested that Kenedy is likely to be sent on loan again this season.

The 21-year-old only featured twice for the Blues last season, after returning from an unsuccessful loan spell with Watford where he also only made one first-team appearance.

Left-sided player Kenedy, who has played as a defender or in midfield, made 20 appearances for Chelsea in 2015-16, but he was plagued by injury while with Watford last term.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Conte said: “Last season he only played 20 minutes at Watford and he went back with Chelsea.

“For him for his development it is very important to find the right solution and play.”

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Kenedy’s only two matches for Chelsea last season came as a substitute in the 4-0 FA Cup victory over Brentford in January and a start in the Premier League win over Watford in May when the title was already won.

He was sent home early from the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East for posting offensive comments about China on social media.

Chelsea have been linked with several left-backs during the summer, with Juventus defender Alex Sandro reportedly their main target.

Conte has said Chelsea need greater strength in depth as they prepare to return to the Champions League and defend their Premier League title.

“It is very important to to improve our squad on the numerical aspect,” Conte said. “We have a small squad.”