Benitez's desperation comes at critical cost: Newcastle January signings rated
Kenedy – 7/10
The first signing through the door on Tyneside, Kenedy arrived at St James’ Park with a reputation of being a tricky young winger who has so far failed to make the grade at Stamford Bridge.
Without a league appearance to his name before making his Newcastle debut against Burnley, there would have been questions over why Benitez felt the need for another man out wide, considering the cash splashed on snapping up Jacob Murphy in the summer.
However his first display was an impressive one, and fans will be happy if he can keep up the quality on the flanks.
His versatility to be able to play at left back may help if Paul Dummett is ruled out of action again, and the poor form of first team regular Matt Ritchie means the Scotland international is now under yet more pressure to perform.
Click ‘next page’ below to see how the second of Newcastle’s new arrival ranks