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Kenedy has a "good relationship" with Rafa Benitez and is confident the Newcastle United manager will improve him as a player.

The 22-year-old returned to Tyneside for a second spell during the summer after the Magpies agreed a season-long loan deal with Chelsea.

One of the key reasons Kenedy was attracted to United in the first place was Benitez's presence in the dugout, and the Spaniard also played a crucial role in convincing the Brazilian to return for a second time.

Interestingly, one piece of advice Benitez keeps giving the winger is that he should improve his English if he wants to progress as a player.

At an important stage in his career - Kenedy will have just a year left on his Chelsea deal once his loan at Newcastle expires - the Brazilian believes he is "lucky" to be working with a manager of Benitez's quality.

"There's no doubt he can improve a player, and I believe he's keen to improve me," Kenedy said of Benitez during an interview with November's edition of Four Four Two.

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"He's always talking to me and giving me little pieces of advice. He reminds me about the importance of learning English, and I know he's right.

"We have a good relationship and it's been very nice working with him. Rafa's a winner and he knows so much about football.

"He's one of the best managers in the game, too, so I'm lucky to work with him."

(Image: Newcastle United)

Despite having been on Tyneside for less than a year, Kenedy has already built a strong rapport with the United supporters.

In fact, Kenedy has revealed that the atmosphere at St James' Park back in September 2015 when he visited Newcastle as a Chelsea player played a "huge part" in luring him to Tyneside on loan.

"They're just amazing. I keep saying that, actually," Kenedy added when asked about the United fans.

"It's me who's the fan of them, not the other way around. They've been treating me well from my first day at the club.

"They're all crazy about football, believe me. I'm happy to play for them, and grateful for everyone's affection and effort to make me feel at home.

"Our stadium is always full, and they support us with incredible passion. They make the team stronger at home.

"I remember when I came here to play for Chelsea during my first season in England. It was a 2-2 draw, and I was impressed with the atmosphere at St James' Park.

"Then, when the opportunity to join Newcastle on loan came my way, I immediately thought back to that experience. It played a huge part in my decision to sign for the club, no doubt about it."

During 13 appearances for the Magpies last season, Kenedy scored twice and provided two assists.

And, although he started the 2018/19 campaign slowly, the Brazilian netted Newcastle's opening goal at Old Trafford earlier this month, was excellent against Manchester United, and remains the Magpies' best creative spark.

(Image: Newcastle United)

"It's difficult to explain [why my best form has come for the Magpies], but I felt really welcomed at Newcastle," Kenedy continued.

"They made a big effort to sign me, and it's great for a player when the club shows an interest in you. That's probably helped me adapt quickly to this team and this city.

"You feel admired and it can only be good for your confidence. I've been treated well since the first day I came here; from the porter to the president, everyone's been kind and honest to me.

"It's an honour to play for Newcastle United, one of the traditional clubs in England. I'm so grateful for the way they've looked after me, and I'll do everything I possibly can to pay them back with goals and good performances this season."