Jamie O'Hara: Xabi Alonso's snub of Estêvão could become his downfall

Chelsea fans and commentators are puzzled by Xabi Alonso's limited use of Estêvão. On Wednesday night, Chelsea was eliminated from the League Cup by Liverpool on penalties, with the Blues manager leaving the Brazilian winger on the bench.

Despite being a fan favorite in his first season at Stamford Bridge, Estêvão has only played 148 competitive minutes under Xabi Alonso.

The 19-year-old has yet to start a Premier League match this season, appearing only as a substitute, primarily filling in at right wing-back for Pedro Neto.

He was not in the starting lineup for Chelsea's 2-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, with Geovany Quenda, also 19 but with significantly less top-flight experience, taking his place.

At Anfield, Estêvão received no playing time at all, despite Cole Palmer's suspension at right wing-forward.

The situation has prompted fans to speculate whether something is happening behind the scenes, as Estêvão was expected to become one of football's brightest stars.

There are also concerns that the highly-rated young player might become frustrated and seek to leave Chelsea.

Speaking about his decision regarding Estêvão against Liverpool, Xabi Alonso said: "I understand his situation. He certainly could be happier."

"Every player wants to play and be part of the team. We have had some intense games, and everything will have its moment."

"I believe Estêvão will have his moment. This is my responsibility, and we need to handle this well."

talkSPORT View: Chelsea Fans Will Change Their Tune

Former Premier League stars Jamie O'Hara and Jermaine Pennant warned Xabi Alonso that his treatment of Estêvão could cost him the support of Chelsea fans.

O'Hara said: "It's a bad situation for Chelsea right now because I really think he's a rising star."

"If you play Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer, that's understandable. But not playing Estêvão at all, not even giving him a chance, is somewhat embarrassing, isn't it?"

"Come on, he's a rising Brazilian star, and you're snubbing him like this."

"I think this will eventually come back to haunt Xabi Alonso. Chelsea fans will start to think, 'Wait a minute, what's going on?'"

Pennant added: "If Xabi Alonso continues not to play him, this could become one of his weaknesses."

"If the team gets good results, everyone will say, okay, it's understandable—you chose a winning lineup."

"But if the team loses away and he doesn't get a chance to play, even though he has the ability to change the game, that's when the fans will start to change their tune."