- Xabi Alonso has defended his decision to leave Estevao as an unused substitute during Chelsea's Carabao Cup fourth-round penalty defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.
- Alonso explained that mid-game fitness concerns for Maxence Lacroix, Moises Caicedo, and Malo Gusto forced his hand regarding substitutions.
- The 19-year-old Brazilian forward remained on the bench despite Chelsea missing key forwards Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro through suspension and injury.
- Estevao has struggled for regular game time this season, featuring for just 53 minutes across six substitute appearances in the Premier League.
- Alonso reassured that the season is long and playing opportunities will eventually arise for everyone in the squad.
IN FULL
