Estevao’s Chelsea wait: Alonso explains why winger stayed on bench at Liverpool

Estevao’s Chelsea wait continued as he remained an unused substitute in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat at Liverpool, with Xabi Alonso pointing to enforced changes and the physical demands of the match.

Chelsea lost 6-5 on penalties after the fourth-round tie finished 1-1 at Anfield. Read our Carabao Cup results round-up.

Travelling supporters sang Estevao’s name during the match, The Standard reported, but the Brazilian remained on the bench.

Why did Estevao not play against Liverpool?

Alonso started Pedro Neto, Danny Welbeck and Morgan Rogers in attack and said the intensity of the game had influenced his selection.

He also explained that physical problems elsewhere in the side affected his substitutions. Moises Caicedo had discomfort and Malo Gusto suffered cramp, while Maxence Lacroix also came off.

Asked about Estevao’s situation, Alonso said: “I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure.”

He added: “I’m sure that Este will have his moment. It’s my responsibility.”

Read our Liverpool vs Chelsea team news for the sides selected at Anfield.

Why did Alonso not introduce Estevao for penalties?

Asked why he had not brought Estevao on with the shootout in mind, Alonso said: “We were quite forced [with subs] at the end.”

He explained that the closeness and intensity of the match influenced his decision about introducing another player, according to the post-match press conference transcript.

Emmanuel Emegha did come on and took a penalty in the shootout, but failed to score.

What Alonso said about Estevao’s injury recovery

Speaking after Wednesday’s match, Alonso referred directly to Estevao’s previous injury while discussing the demands of English football.

“But he had the injury and he’s in that process,” Alonso said.

That followed his comments earlier in the month about managing the winger’s return. Chelsea’s official report on 9 October stated that a hamstring injury had ruled the 19-year-old out of the end of last season and the World Cup.

Alonso said then that Estevao was feeling better and had played more for Brazil, while highlighting the different demands of international football and the Premier League.

What comes next for Chelsea?

Chelsea host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Read our Chelsea vs Man Utd TV guide for viewing details and the latest team news.

Alonso has not confirmed whether Estevao will start or come on against United.

Estevao: your questions answered

Did Estevao play against Liverpool?

No. Estevao was an unused substitute as Chelsea drew 1-1 at Anfield before losing 6-5 on penalties in the Carabao Cup.

Why did Alonso leave Estevao on the bench?

Alonso pointed to the physical demands of the match and substitutions affected by problems for other players. Speaking after the game, he also referred to Estevao’s recovery from his previous injury.

Will Estevao play against Manchester United?

Alonso has not confirmed whether Estevao will start or come on against Manchester United. He has said the winger will have opportunities during the season.