Xabi Alonso says Estevao Willian has earned the right to demand more gametime after putting in an impressive performance for Chelsea against Manchester United on Saturday.
The Blues ran out 2-0 winners at Stamford Bridge despite struggling to contain the Red Devils in the first half.
Michael Carrick’s men created numerous chances to score, but they spurned them all to leave the game goalless at halftime.
United’s profligacy was punished after the break when Rogers broke the deadlock in the 50th minute. Things went from bad to worse for the visitors when Lisandro Martinez received a second booking for elbowing Wesley Fofana in the box before Cole Palmer converted the subsequent penalty.
The results takes Chelsea up to fourth in the Premier League table, one point ahead of Liverpool who face Arsenal on Sunday.
“We are happy,” Alonso told TNT Sports after the final whistle. “The game had different moments. The first half was close: few chances for both teams.
“At half-time we spoke about keeping control and said we will win the game if we keep the ball. It was a mature performance.”
Alonso picks out Estevao for praise as Chelsea beat Man Utd
Estevao, making his first top-flight start of the season, was one of the few Chelsea players who perform well in a match devoid of quality. The Brazilian was lively on both wings and twice had the ball in the net, but was offside on both occasions.
After being peppered with questions about the teenager’s lack of minutes this season, Alonso said he’s done his chances of playing more regularly no harm.
“Estevao did really well. I am happy for him. He deserved this chance and the opportunity to give back.
“Absolutely, [his performance] has given him more reasons to say ‘coach I want to play more minutes’.”
It was a much needed win for Chelsea following last weekend’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur and their elimination from the League Cup by Liverpool in midweek, but Alonso wants to see better from his side.
“I am very demanding,” he said. “We can do better. We are taking a step forward but I don’t know how far we are.
“My expectations are really high. I am sure for the last three months of the season we will be much better.”
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