A late flourish from Estevao Willian almost snatched Chelsea a draw at Arsenal on Sunday. His curling strike was saved by goalkeeper David Raya to preserve Arsenal's lead, but it served as a reminder of the important role the 19-year-old Brazil winger could play in Xabi Alonso's side. His game time has been limited so far this season by the club record £117m signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa as well as the form of Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro.
The £51m signing from Brazilian club Palmeiras has played only 96 minutes this season, with 80 of those coming against League One side Luton Town in the Carabao Cup. His remaining 16 minutes were in substitute appearances against Fulham and Premier League champions Arsenal, while he was unused as Chelsea held on for a narrow victory over Brighton in their third match of the campaign. Reports in Brazil have suggested Estevao is unhappy with his lack of opportunities.
However, those claims have been denied by sources at Stamford Bridge and by people close to the player, some of whom have also expressed excitement about Chelsea's summer recruitment - including the arrival of Rogers. Chelsea regard Estevao as one of a small group of untouchable players that includes Palmer, Joao Pedro and Moises Caicedo. The club have no intention of selling any of them, with Estevao central to the long-term planning of Alonso and Chelsea's leadership team.
There were also early discussions over a new contract, with Chelsea keen to reward key players with improved terms in the coming months, having done so for Joao Pedro. Asked whether Estevao's lack of involvement meant he was unhappy, Alonso replied: "No, Este is ready, training well. The other day he had a great impact.
"He is fully involved with a very good attitude every day. I count on Este 100% because of his potential. He is so young but he is learning and adapting quickly.
The season is long." Estevao also suffered a serious grade-four hamstring tear late last season and missed the World Cup, so is expected to build his involvement through the campaign. Chelsea explored move for Fulham midfielder Berge Two right-backs in midfield - are Chelsea short despite £349m spent? Estevao came on for Pedro Neto, who has been operating as a wing-back in Alonso's new system, as Chelsea chased an equaliser on Sunday.
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