BBC pundits Clinton Morrison and Jobi McAnuff have questioned Xabi Alonso’s decision to leave Estevao Willian unused as Chelsea were eliminated by Liverpool in the Carabao Cup.
The fourth-round tie at Anfield finished 1-1 after normal time before Liverpool prevailed 6-5 on penalties. Despite Chelsea having injuries among their attacking options, Estevao remained on the bench throughout the match and shootout.
BBC pundits question Estevao decision
Morrison, the former Crystal Palace striker, said the teenager would be entitled to wonder what more he needed to do to earn an opportunity under Alonso.
“How Estevao has not got on the pitch tonight I do not know. He must be thinking, what do I have to do? We have injuries to two of the star players up front and I’m still not getting on the pitch,” Morrison said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
McAnuff also felt Estevao could have offered Chelsea a different threat against Liverpool, particularly in the latter stages of the contest.
“I think it’s one Xabi Alonso has to answer very soon [on why Estevao hasn’t played] because you can talk about injuries and suspensions to forward players and again, in a game like today he is a difference maker,” he said.
“He’s the last person you want to see come on that pitch tonight if you are a Liverpool defender. Him getting on the ball, running at you, making things happen. I just feel that there’s something there at the moment that is stopping him getting the game time that we are all sitting here thinking he should be getting.”
Chelsea suffer penalty shootout defeat
Chelsea took the lead when Morgan Rogers converted from the penalty spot in the 40th minute, but Cody Gakpo equalised for Liverpool with a spot-kick shortly before half-time.
Neither side could find a winner during the remainder of normal time, sending the tie directly to penalties. Liverpool eventually held their nerve to win the shootout 6-5 and send Chelsea out of the competition.
Estevao’s limited opportunities have already prompted questions about his role in Alonso’s plans. The Brazilian is regarded as an exciting prospect, while regular first-team football is considered important to his development.
Reports of interest from several clubs, including Liverpool, have added to speculation over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge. His omission from such a closely fought knockout match is likely to intensify scrutiny of his current position at Chelsea.
