Xabi Alonso says Estevao has shown he deserves more game time after the Brazilian teenager tormented Manchester United on his first Premier League start of the season.
The 19-year-old was a constant menace in Chelsea’s 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge, firing off six shots and having the ball in the net twice – only for both efforts to be ruled out for offside.
Alonso had told Estevao he would start straight after the defeat by Tottenham, and the Chelsea boss could not have asked for a better response.
“We spoke after Tottenham and he knew he was going to be playing today,” said Alonso.
“He has had the best response to show that he deserves more, that he was prepared, and that’s what you want from a football player. I’m very happy for him.
“I think he’s been a threat. He has created many chances, many situations where we could score.”
Estevao was given a warm reception by the home fans when he was finally replaced in the 87th minute.
“He deserves to enjoy his game and deserves to have a good connection with the crowd,” Alonso added.
“He was really close to scoring that goal. At the end he fought really hard, he was tired and it has been a good day for him.”
After a display like that, Alonso will find it hard to leave the teenager out.