Xabi Alonso lauds Estevao reaction to Chelsea chance: 'He deserves more'

Alonso confirmed he told Estevao before the match he would start, praising the Brazilian's response and performance in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Manchester United.

Xabi Alonso revealed he had informed Estevao after Chelsea's Tottenham game that the Brazilian teenager would start against Manchester United on Saturday. The decision paid off as Chelsea won 2-0 at Stamford Bridge, with Estevao making his first Premier League start of the season.

Alonso praised Estevao's reaction and performance, saying: "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." The manager noted that Estevao was a threat throughout, created chances, and came close to scoring. Alonso explained the tactical reasoning behind the selection, suggesting United's style of play made it the right moment to deploy the winger.

Estevao's lack of game time had drawn criticism, particularly after he was not used in Chelsea's Carabao Cup penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool midweek. Chelsea's next match is away at Sunderland next Sunday, where Estevao will hope to retain his starting place.