Xabi Alonso has insisted Estevao Willian will ‘have his moment’ after the Brazilian was an unused substitute in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool. The Blues lost on penalties at Anfield after the match finished 1-1 in normal time, with Cody Gakpo’s spot-kick cancelling out Morgan Rogers’ own penalty.
Estevao had been expected to feature for Chelsea after struggling for game-time in the Premier League, but the 19-year-old remained on the bench. The Brazilian, who has already earned 14 caps for his country, is regarded as one of the best young players in the world but has started just three games for Chelsea this season.
Alonso addresses Estevao’s frustration
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Alonso admitted Estevao ‘could be happier’ but promised the forward would soon get his chance to impress.
‘I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure,’ Alonso said. ‘Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team.
‘We have had some intense games and there will be moments for everything. I’m sure that Este will have his moment. It’s my responsibility and we need to deal with that.’
Substitution decisions explained
Asked about chants from the Chelsea end in support of Estevao, Alonso added: ‘The fans were saying a lot of things.
‘We started with Pedro [Neto], with Danny [Welbeck] and with Morgan [Rogers] up front. The game had very intense moments. We knew that it was going to be physical.
‘And after we had to deal with Moi [Caicedo], he had little problems. Malo [Gusto], as well, he had cramps. So we were a little bit forced with substitutions.
‘We know that the season is going to be long and there will be moments for everyone. Trust me, I’m sure the season is going to be long and Este is going to play his role.’
Pundits criticise Alonso’s decision
Alonso’s decision not to use Estevao drew criticism not only from travelling Chelsea supporters but also from pundits Clinton Morrison and Jobi McAnuff.
‘How Estevao has not got on the pitch tonight I do not know,’ former Premier League striker Morrison said on BBC Radio 5 Live. ‘He must be thinking, what do I have to do? We have injuries to two of the star players up front and I’m still not getting on the pitch.’
McAnuff added: ‘I think it’s one Xabi Alonso has to answer very soon [on why Estevao hasn’t played] because you can talk about injuries and suspensions to forward players and again, in a game like today he is a difference maker.
‘He’s the last person you want to see come on that pitch tonight if you are a Liverpool defender. Him getting on the ball, running at you, making things happen.
‘I just feel that there’s something there at the moment that is stopping him getting the game time that we are all sitting here thinking he should be getting.’
