Liam Rosenior has been speaking about Estevao Willian’s chances of starting against Arsenal tonight, and explained why he is planning to be cautious with the winger’s playing time.
Estevao joined the Blues from Palmeiras last summer, leaving his homeland in Brazil for the first time, to compete in the Premier League at the age of 18.
His skill and direct approach have made him an instant hit with the Chelsea supporters. However, our head coach has asked for patience as Estevao continues to be eased into life at Stamford Bridge, even though he enjoys seeing the Brazilian shining on the pitch as much as the fans do.
‘I understand why fans are frustrated when he’s not on the pitch because when you see him on the pitch, he does magical things,’ said Rosenior.
‘He’s 18 years old, he’s come from a completely different culture, a completely different way of playing, different weather, different intensity. “Protect” is one word and I agree with that, but “look after” is probably a better term.
‘I want him to have an outstanding career. I also want him to help us win now. There’s a fine balance between the two.
‘So, for me, I’m going to use him when I think it’s the right time for us as a team and he’s got a really, really good chance of starting this game. And if not in this game [against Arsenal], then against Brentford on Saturday.’
Rosenior also hinted there could be other changes to his line-up in the first leg of our Carabao Cup semi-final this evening. He wants to give every member of his squad a chance to impress after taking charge at Chelsea.
‘Normally, you get good surprises if you give people a chance. I had some really good surprises in the game against Charlton,’ Rosenior added as he prepares for his second game as Chelsea head coach, and first at the Bridge.
‘I thought the performance from some of the players who maybe haven’t played as much this season was outstanding and I want to give them a chance.’
