Daniel Sturridge thinks Cole Palmer is causing a ‘problem’ for Chelsea teammate, and he’s right
Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, and while it was a brave performance in what will be their toughest fixture all season, away at The Emirates, it was still Xabi Alonso’s first loss.
But it was inches away from being 2-2. Estevao had come on as a replacement for goalscorer Morgan Rogers in the final 10 minutes, with the Brazil international struggling to get a look in at the moment.
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The Chelsea star is said to be concerned over his game time right now, and he’s right to be worried. It is something Xabi Alonso has to get a hold of, largely because Chelsea see Estevao as an ‘untouchable’.
After an initial quiet few minutes, Estevao cut inside from the right flank and slammed a left-footed shot into the top corner. However, David Raya managed to pluck the ball out of the air and tip it over.
Daniel Sturridge sees Estevao problem caused by Cole Palmer
Following the match, the Sky Sports pundits were discussing the former Palmeiras star after he came so close to equalising for Chelsea. Former Blues man Daniel Sturridge discussed Estevao’s problem.
“That’s the problem [getting past Rogers, Palmer and Pedro],” Sturridge said. “I love him as a player. I think he’s got so much ability, so much growth. But you can clearly see the comfort in the front three.
“This formation is going to evolve. Things will evolve; the manager will add players: Palestra, Caicedo. Ultimately, I do love Estevao. Top, top player. He’s still finding his feet; last season was his first season.
“This season, we need to see him – I’m not going to say kick on because he’s got Cole Palmer in front of him. When he gets opportunities, he needs to keep doing what he’s doing; show us something,” he said.
“Show your skills, give us some excitement, and he did that today. Don’t lose faith in your ability; you might not get the minutes you want, but we know the talent is there,” Sturridge said on Estevao.
Estevao has got to start against Leeds on Wednesday night
The turnaround is quick for Chelsea. In just 72 hours, Chelsea host Leeds United – their FA Cup semi-final rivals – at Stamford Bridge. Leeds came from two goals down to draw at Chelsea under Liam Rosenior.
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Not an easy game for the Blues or Alonso to bypass, with Leeds unbeaten in their four games in all competitions, despite two wins away at Nottingham Forest and drawing with Brighton and Brentford.
However, it does hand a few fringe players like Estevao the chance to shine. Alonso has got to give Estevao the chance to impress, as he did against Luton, when he picks his Chelsea side to face Leeds.
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