Estevao sends Chelsea reminder as Alonso waits on Palmer and Joao Pedro

Estevao has delivered a timely reminder of his quality to Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, with injury doubts surrounding Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro ahead of the Premier League return.

The 19-year-old has endured a frustrating start to the season at Stamford Bridge, failing to start a Premier League game as Alonso has preferred a front three of Palmer, Joao Pedro and summer signing Morgan Rogers.

But Estevao has used the international break to strengthen his case for more opportunities.

The Chelsea youngster needed just 45 minutes to make an impact during Brazil’s 2-0 first-half lead against India in Kolkata.

Estevao scored once and created another for Pedro Guilherme, continuing his impressive record at senior international level.

He now has six goals from 13-and-a-half appearances for Brazil, a remarkable return considering his limited opportunities with Chelsea this season.

His latest performance could hardly have arrived at a better time.

Palmer withdrew from the England squad during the international break, while Joao Pedro has been receiving specialist treatment for a knee problem.

That could leave Alonso needing to change his attack when Chelsea host Bournemouth next weekend.

Despite his limited minutes, Estevao has publicly remained patient about his situation.

Speaking during the international break, the Brazilian insisted he understands the competition for places at Chelsea and is concentrating on his own performances.

“We have quality players at Chelsea, so what I do is focus on what I can control,” Estevao said.

“When I get an opportunity, I try to give my best.”

That opportunity could now arrive sooner than expected.

If either Palmer or Joao Pedro is unavailable against Bournemouth, Estevao’s international form makes him an obvious candidate to step into Alonso’s starting XI.

After waiting patiently for his chance, the Brazilian has given his manager something to think about.

Chelsea will assess Palmer and Joao Pedro before Bournemouth visit Stamford Bridge, with their fitness potentially determining Estevao’s role.

Alonso has so far preferred Palmer, Joao Pedro and Rogers as his first-choice attacking combination, but Estevao’s Brazil performances have ensured he remains firmly in contention.

For the teenager, the equation is straightforward. He has been waiting for an opportunity and, if Chelsea’s injury situation opens the door, his international form suggests he is ready to take it.