Antonio Conte: 'Kenedy not in my plans'

Chelsea's Kenedy during the Premier League match against Watford on May 15, 2017
© SilverHub
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte confirms that Kenedy will not be part of the first-team picture for the upcoming season.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has confirmed that winger Kenedy will not be part of his first-team plans for the upcoming season.

The 21-year-old was sent home early from the club's tour of the Far East last month, received a heavy fine and was forced to train alone after posting a series of offensive messages about China.

The Brazilian spent the first half of last season on loan at Watford, playing just 15 minutes in the Premier League before being recalled by the Blues in January, then featured for just 94 minutes under Conte on their way to the title.

"I think that Kenedy last season didn't play before he went on loan to Watford," Conte told reporters today. "He only played 10 minutes.

"When he went back with Chelsea he played only twice. For him, his development, it is important to find the right solution for him to play regularly."

Asked about Kenedy's social media furore, Conte added: "Unfortunately, it happened this situation, because we all know it is a pity.

"The player was sorry about this situation. It is a difficult situation, also for the club. For this reason we make this decision for the player. The player understood his mistake, he is sorry for what happened. Now he must go home."

Kenedy joined Chelsea from Fluminense in his homeland in August 2015.

Antonio Conte celebrates Chelsea's Premier League win over Watford on May 15, 2017
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