Estevao still waiting for a Premier League start under Alonso

Estevao has not started any of Chelsea's eight Premier League matches since manager Alonso took charge in the summer, leaving the Brazilian forward on the fringes at Stamford Bridge.

His 172 minutes this campaign have come largely in EFL Cup wins over Luton Town and Leeds United. Even in the victory over Leeds, which he started, he was taken off at half-time with Chelsea behind.

He was left unused in the EFL Cup defeat by Liverpool at Anfield, even though Cole Palmer was suspended and Joao Pedro was injured. Alonso said he instead started Pedro Neto, Morgan Rogers and Danny Welbeck, while former Crystal Palace forward Clinton Morrison said he did not know how Estevao had failed to get on the pitch.

Neto's form has been one of the main reasons for Estevao's exile, with Alonso giving the Portugal international seven starts in the league this season. Used mainly as a right-sided wing-back, Neto has thrived in Estevao's favoured area of the pitch, and former Reading midfielder Jobi McAnuff said the Brazilian was something of a victim of the system.

Alonso said Estevao could be happier and wants to play, but added: "I'm sure Estevao will have his moment, it is my responsibility." The manager also said the season would be very long and that there would be moments for everyone.