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Chelsea manager Alonso dismisses talk of Estevao loan deal / Photo: © AFP
Chelsea manager Alonso dismisses talk of Estevao loan deal
Xabi Alonso said Friday there had been no discussions about loaning out Estevao as the Brazilian teenager struggles to force his way into the Chelsea manager's first-team plans.
The 19-year-old provided some rare highlights during a largely forgettable campaign for the Blues last season that saw Liam Rosenior sacked as Chelsea boss in April.
But he has yet to start in the Premier League under Alonso, with Estevao having played just 172 minutes of first-team football so far this season.
The rising star remained an unused substitute as Chelsea were knocked out of the League Cup by Liverpool in a penalty shoot-out on Wednesday, with his path into the starting side blocked by Alonso's favoured front three of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro.
Nevertheless, Alonso -- speaking ahead of Chelsea's match at home to Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday -- said of Estevao: "Sure, he will play. The season is long and there will be moments for everyone.
"He will have his games, his minutes. We are still early in the season but he will be there."
As for the prospects of former Palmeiras favourite Estevao leaving Stamford Bridge on loan when the transfer window re-opens in January, Alonso said: "No discussions about (a loan)."
Chelsea will be eager to return to winning ways against a struggling United after defeats by Liverpool and Tottenham.
A.Smith--SFF
