There is nothing that creates scrutiny quite like not winning football matches.

Xabi Alonso is under nowhere near the same pressure as his opposite number, Michael Carrick, before Chelsea host Manchester United on Saturday.

However, a home league defeat by Tottenham has brought increased scrutiny, with questions raised about his tactics, while a penalty shootout loss at Liverpool in the Carabao Cup added to his problems.

The latter result on Wednesday was notable for who did not play: namely, Estevao Willian.

The Brazilian teenager is regarded as one of the world's brightest young attacking talents but has played only 172 minutes for Chelsea since the start of the season, the equivalent of less than two full matches.

Given the cup exit and no European competition, there are now even fewer matches available to Estevao and others on the fringes of Chelsea's large 27-man squad.

It is a curious situation that has driven discussion after travelling supporters on Merseyside chanted his name despite Estevao remaining an unused substitute.

Furthermore, Alonso's injury concerns are mounting.

Defender Maxence Lacroix is expected to be out until after the international break, joining Emiliano Martinez, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Reece James and Pep Chavarria on the sidelines.

More worryingly for Chelsea, Alonso cast doubt over the fitness of midfielder Moises Caicedo and Malo Gusto following a "physical" match against Liverpool.

There will be plenty to discuss when Alonso speaks to the media at 13:30 GMT on Friday.