Chelsea's teenage sensation Estevao may be handed a starting role against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge this weekend, as the Blues look to overcome a recent run of indiscipline and key injuries. The 18-year-old Brazilian has impressed with his dribbling and pace, but was substituted early in the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez's red card.
Manager Enzo Maresca is considering deploying Estevao on the right wing to exploit Liverpool's defence, with Cole Palmer out injured and Joao Pedro struggling for form. The Italian coach compared Estevao's development to that of Palmer, suggesting the teenager could eventually move into a central playmaking role as he gains physical maturity.
Estevao showed flashes of his ability in the Champions League against Benfica, where his close control and speed troubled the Portuguese side. However, Maresca acknowledged that playing centrally in the Premier League requires greater physical readiness, a trait Palmer has only recently developed.
Chelsea have received three red cards in their last four games, and Maresca believes the team must mature quickly. With Liverpool leading the league, the Blues will need a potent counter-attacking threat to secure a result, and Estevao's direct running could be the key.
