Alonso on Estevao’s lack of game time and Lacroix injury worry after Chelsea’s Carabao Cup exit
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso insists Estevao will get his chance despite the Brazilian failing to feature in the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool.
Chelsea supporters were heard singing Estevao’s name during the game, but Alonso opted not to introduce him from the bench as the Blues crashed out of the competition on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
“The fans were saying a lot of things,” Alonso said.
“Well, we have started with Pedro, with Danny and with Morgan 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, he had little problems. Malo, as well, he had cramps. So we were a little bit forced with substitutions.
“And now we know that the season is going to be long. And there will be moments for everyone.”
Asked whether he was seeing enough from Estevao in training, Alonso admitted the winger would understandably want more opportunities.
“I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure,” he 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.”
Alonso also pointed to the physical demands of English football and Estevao’s recovery from injury when explaining his limited minutes.
“Yes, we know that the Premier League and the game in England is really intense,” he said.
“You need to be up for it. Este has played, for sure, it’s his second season. But he had the injury and he’s in that process.
“Trust me, I’m sure the season is going to be long and Este is going to play his role.”
Chelsea were also handed a potential injury concern during the defeat, with Maxence Lacroix suffering a hamstring problem.
“Too early to tell,” Alonso said.
“Probably he felt something on the hamstrings. And we need a couple of days to check what’s going to be the injury.”
