Estevao Willian put in a starring performance for Chelsea in their win over Ajax, however admitted after the game he didn’t have the best preparation for his first Champions League start.
The Blues set a number of records during the 5-1 victory over the Dutch side, and Estevao was amongst those writing their name in Chelsea history.
The Brazil international became the club’s youngest ever goalscorer in the Champions League, taking the record from teammate Marc Guiu after he had opened the scoring.
Paul Robinson has tipped Estevao for a big future after watching him against Ajax, and the youngster was notably excited when speaking after the game.
Estevao Willian looks on ahead of Chelsea vs Ajax
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Estevao Willian couldn’t sleep before first Chelsea Champions League start
However, the winger admitted that he didn’t get the best preparation before the game. He told TNT Sports Brazil that he couldn’t sleep like normal when he found out he would be starting his first European game for Chelsea.
He said: “I found out this morning at the meeting, I found out I was going to play. I usually sleep in the afternoon, but I was so anxious I couldn’t even sleep.
It was clear that this didn’t have an impact on Estevao’s performance, with him one of the candidates for player of the match.
Estevao Willian vs Ajax Total
Minutes 90
Goals 1
Shots 8
Chances Created 2
Penalties Won 1
Touches 70
Chelsea winger Estevao Willian celebrating goal vs Ajax
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Estevao is now part of Chelsea’s best attack
Maresca is currently naming an attack without two of his best players available for selection. Cole Palmer and Liam Delap remain out of action.
However, Delap is closing in on a return to training, and the boss will soon face the headache of picking only four players in the frontline for the Blues.
Estevao has now forced his way into the manager’s best side, and he should be starting alongside Joao Pedro, Palmer and Delap when everyone is fit.
This would see some very talented players drop to the bench, including Pedro Neto who has enjoyed a very strong start to the campaign.