Antonio Conte plans to give Kenedy and other fringe players a chance to shine in Chelsea’s EFL Cup game against Bournemouth.
Kenedy, who was sent home from the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East after posting offensive message about China on social media, has struggled to establish himself at Stamford Bridge, but will get an opportunity to impress in Wednesday’s quarter final.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, Blues boss Conte said: “Kenedy has tried to give everything during the training this last five months and the behaviours and commitment was perfect.
“It is right to give him an opportunity to play in an important game. He deserves this opportunity to show me he deserves to play for Chelsea.
“I have to trust my players not only in words, but facts. I want to give this opportunity.”
Michy Batshuayi and Danny Drinkwater are set to start and there could also be chances for the likes of
Ethan Ampadu, Dujon Sterling and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Conte confirmed that Batshuayi and Drinkwater are in line to play and that striker Hudson-Odoi and right-back Sterling “could be” involved.
He added: “Ampadu played the last game (in the EFL Cup) against Everton and maybe he could start. I must consider the young players if they deserve this chance.”