Ghana winger Christian Atsu has lauded the mental fortitude of Brazilian attacker Kenedy ahead of Newcastle United’s clash against Chelsea on Sunday.
The Magpies were handed a huge opportunity to record their first win of the season when referee Craig Pawson awarded them a late spot kick in their game against Cardiff City last Saturday.
But Kenedy’s poor kick was thwarted by the Blue Bird’s goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
According to Atsu, who spent time together with Kenedy at Chelsea, the Brazilian has put that disappointment behind him.
"I watched the game and Joselu did something that was great when he missed the penalty," explained Atsu.
"He went to him, he hugged him and said 'let's go again.' This is the team spirit that we have and I'm very happy that the players supported him.
"In training, I've seen that he's very happy and confident again. We need him to be at his best because he's very important for the team and he can help the team so we're all praying that the next time he will take (a penalty) and score.
"He's very skilful, he's technically good, he can shoot, he can defend, so we're happy that he's here. Now his head is up and, while I know he can not play against Chelsea, he is training well.
"The past is the past now. The future is more important and he's doing exactly what he has to do now."
Atsu, who was left of the squad last time out, could be recalled back into the side following Kenedy’s ineligibility to face his parent club on Sunday.
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