Xabi Alonso has dismissed reports that Chelsea winger Estevao is growing frustrated with his lack of game time, insisting the 19-year-old is ready and fully part of his plans. The Chelsea head coach addressed the speculation at a press conference ahead of Wednesday's Carabao Cup tie against Leeds United, where Estevao is expected to feature.
Estevao's limited role this season
The Brazilian teenager, who was unveiled at Stamford Bridge in August last year, impressed during his debut campaign with eight goals in 36 appearances. He has also earned 11 caps for Brazil, scoring five times, and is widely tipped to become a global superstar.
However, this season has started slowly for Estevao. He has made just two substitute appearances in the Premier League, totalling 16 minutes on the pitch. He did start the Carabao Cup win over Luton Town, but with Chelsea not competing in European football this term, top-flight action is what he craves.
Reports of frustration and position concerns
ESPN Brasil reported that Estevao has concerns over his game time at Chelsea and the position he is deployed in when he does play. According to the report, he would prefer one of the central attacking roles occupied by Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers rather than the right wing-back position that Pedro Neto has been filling.
The report from his homeland suggested that if his situation does not improve, he could push for a move elsewhere. Alonso, however, has moved to quash any talk of the youngster being unsettled.
Alonso's backing and injury updates
'No, Este is ready. He's training well,' Alonso told reporters when asked if Estevao is unhappy. 'The other day [against Arsenal], he had a good impact and a good chance. With Este, I count on him 100 per cent because of his potential because he's so young. The season is going to be long.'
On whether he has spoken to the teenager, the Chelsea boss said: 'Private conversations should remain private. The season is going to be long. The players have the desire and the hunger to improve. Este is part of the group – he has a very good attitude and mentality to prepare for every game.'
Estevao will feature against Leeds, but summer signing Marco Palestra and Moises Caicedo remain sidelined with injuries. 'Not yet,' Alonso said of the pair's availability. 'They're still not ready to go. It's not the moment to take too early of a risk. We'll go game by game with them, but it's too early.'
