Chelsea star Estevao Willian has fond memories of taking on Wednesday night’s opponents Liverpool.

The Blues travel to Anfield to face the Reds in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup. After being overlooked in the Premier League by Xabi Alonso this season, it is a game you would expect Estevao to start as his manager rotates the team.

Estevao was brought on in the second half and made quite the impact in the 15 minutes he played. The 19-year-old did not just score. He also created opportunities and was very direct.

The fresh impetus that Estevao and Jamie Gittens brought was exactly what Chelsea needed after Liverpool drew level. Neither was afraid as they really took the game to Arne Slot’s side.

According to Sofascore, Estevao attempted three dribbles but did not complete any of them. However, the fact that he still tried after failing the first time showed his directness and confidence. A game of that magnitude and with things being so tight, it was not the time to be losing the ball. But Estevao was unwilling to change his style, which was not a negative even if he could not beat his man.

Estevao picking up the ball alone was enough to lift the atmosphere and get fans off their feet, with the Stamford Bridge faithful well aware of what the Brazilian is capable of. Estevao was also not afraid to put a cross into the box and had more success with that.

In total, the 19-year-old completed two successful crosses from three attempts. He also registered two key passes and created one big chance. Offensively, the Brazil international provided so much after coming on. What about defensively?

There is a feeling among some Chelsea supporters that Estevao does not do enough defensively and that is one reason why the former Palmeiras star has not received more opportunities under Alonso. Against Liverpool last year, though, Estevao won one tackle and made one interception. It is not bad for a young attacker who was on the pitch for just 15 minutes.

Estevao is reportedly set for showdown talks with Chelsea after failing to make a single start in the Premier League so far this season. It would be disappointing to see him go, but hopefully he can begin to win Alonso over, starting from Wednesday when Chelsea travel to Anfield.