Estevao Willian had not started a Premier League match this season before his electric display against Manchester United on Saturday.
The 19-year-old winger was an unused substitute for the midweek penalty shootout defeat by Liverpool but was still serenaded with chants from away fans at Anfield.
Three days later, after questions had been raised about the Brazil international’s lack of opportunities, Chelsea supporters made their feelings clear.
Early on against United at Stamford Bridge, supporters chanted “Steve-o”, their tongue-in-cheek nickname for the £38m signing from Palmeiras.
This time he was on the field, making things happen in a team that lacked a recognised striker, and the loud backing from the stands appeared justified.
Estevao had an early goal ruled out for offside before another fine near-post finish in the second half was disallowed – a marginal decision.
At the end of his 86-minute display in the Blues’ 2-0 victory, Estevao received a standing ovation from the home crowd and a hug from Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso.
He had six shots, the joint-most by a Chelsea player in a Premier League match this season, along with a host of other impressive attacking contributions.
He recorded 12 touches in the opposition penalty area, created three chances, delivered eight crosses and completed five dribbles – all either the most or joint-most by a Chelsea player in Saturday’s match.
Estevao’s limited recent involvement remains curious. Before this, he had made only one start this season, against League One side Luton Town in the Carabao Cup in September.
It has led to speculation in the Brazilian media that he is unhappy or pushing for a move.
However, both publicly and privately, sources at Chelsea and those close to Estevao have suggested no signs of discontent.
There has been widespread praise for his professionalism behind the scenes and a feeling that he has been unfortunate, not least with the form of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro, which has limited his opportunities.
Chelsea’s tendency to score first or take early leads has also meant more defensive options have often been chosen from the bench.
There was talk before Saturday’s match that Alonso was keeping his plans to start Estevao against Manchester United under wraps, having faced questions from the media about the winger in the build-up.
He confirmed after the victory that the decision had already been made. In fact, it was made in the aftermath of last weekend’s home defeat by Tottenham.
“We spoke after Tottenham and he knew that he was going to be playing tonight, today,” Alonso said.
“He has had the best response to show that he deserves more, that he was prepared, and that’s what you want from a football player, so I’m very happy for him.
“He deserved to enjoy his game. He had a good connection with the crowd. He was really close to scoring that goal. At the end he fought really hard. He was tired and it has been a good day for him.”
The performance will only increase pressure on Alonso to keep Estevao in the side and ensure this was not a one-off.
