Chelsea were knocked out of the Carabao Cup in a loss to Liverpool on Wednesday, with Estevao not playing a minute. After the match, manager Xabi Alonso said he understood the player could be happier and said he was sure his moment would come.
Alonso on Estevao's situation
Alonso said: "I understand his situation and that he could be happier, for sure. Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team."
Alonso said: "We know that the season is going to be long and there will be moments for everyone."
Alonso said: "I'm sure that Este will have his moment."
Why Estevao was not used
Alonso said: "We have started with Pedro [Neto], with Danny [Welbeck] and with Morgan [Rogers] up front."
Alonso said: "We were quite forced."
Alonso said Chelsea were quite forced with their substitutions because Maxence Lacroix went off before half-time, Moises Caicedo had a small problem and Malo Gusto had cramp.
Alonso on the demands and Estevao's role
Alonso said: "The game in England is really intense. 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, Este is going to play his role."
Minutes and January claim
The Independent reported that Estevao has played 47 minutes in the Premier League. The Independent reported that his 18-minute outing against Tottenham came after cameos of seven, nine, four, three and six.
The Independent reported that Chelsea supporters chorused Estevao's name at Anfield as a demonstration of dissent against Alonso.
The Independent reported that Estevao is believed to be keen on a move in January.
The Independent reported that Chelsea are only playing one midweek match before Christmas.