Gerrard warns Alonso that 19-year-old Estevao creates a tactical headache
The former Liverpool manager said the Brazilian winger's hunger for shots makes him a difficult player to manage in the starting lineup.
By Anthony Shevchenko ·
Steven Gerrard warned that Chelsea winger Estevao will present a difficult selection challenge for manager Xabi Alonso. The 19-year-old has reportedly grown frustrated with his limited playing time, a situation that has drawn criticism from fans and pundits alike.
The situation intensified last week when Alonso left Estevao on the bench during the Carabao Cup match against Liverpool. That decision sparked immediate debate. Estevao then received his first Premier League start of the season the following Saturday. He helped Chelsea secure a 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Gerrard praised the Brazilian's performance in that match. Speaking on The Overlap, he described the player as exciting and enjoyable to watch. Gerrard noted that while the winger possesses typical Brazilian flair and quality, he is also remarkably direct in his approach. He specifically highlighted Estevao's eagerness to take shots on goal.
The former Liverpool manager contrasted this style with the play of some of his own former teammates. He observed that players in Liverpool's attacking areas often wait for an extra pass or a moment of perfection. Estevao, by contrast, prefers to create his own opportunities. Gerrard pointed to a specific moment in the first half against United where Estevao combined play before firing a shot that required a fantastic save from the goalkeeper.
Gerrard added that Estevao could have slowed the game down in that instance to pull the ball back to the edge of the box. Instead, the winger chose to be hungry for a goal. This desire to impress the manager is evident in his work rate and decision-making on the pitch.
The selection issue will become more complex when Joao Pedro returns from injury. Gerrard noted that Pedro Neto is also a great player. Since the number five role does not fit into the front four, Alonso will have to decide how to deploy these attacking talents. Gerrard concluded that Estevao has done himself no harm with his individual performances.
