Alonso says Estevao has earned more opportunities after Chelsea win
The 19-year-old made his first Premier League start of the season as Chelsea beat Manchester United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso said Estevao Willian deserved greater playing time after the Brazilian registered six shots and created three chances in a 2-0 Premier League win over Manchester United. Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer scored Chelsea's goals at Stamford Bridge.
Estevao, 19, played 87 minutes in his first league start of the season. Three of his attempts were on target, while offside decisions denied him two goals. His six shots matched Chelsea's highest individual tally in a Premier League game this season, and supporters gave him a standing ovation when he was substituted.
In comments carried by Chelsea's official website, Alonso said he had discussed the selection with Estevao after the Tottenham match. He said the teenager had demonstrated his readiness. Alonso also said the start had been planned before criticism of his decision to keep Estevao on the bench against Liverpool in the EFL Cup.
Before the United fixture, Estevao had accumulated 47 minutes over six league appearances this season. With Joao Pedro absent through a thigh injury, Pedro Neto played centrally, with Estevao, Palmer and Rogers in support. Chelsea next visit Sunderland in the Premier League on November 8.
