The introduction of Estevao Willian to the Chelsea side against Sunderland in the second half was this time not enough to help the Blues to three points.
Despite Estevao being a big part as to why the Blues picked up three points against Liverpool before the international break, although he was not able to make the required impact as they fell to a 2-1 defeat at Sunderland.
Alejandro Garnacho was disappointed to be subbed off for Estevao early in the second half after he’d looked dangerous and scored his first goal for the club earlier in the afternoon.
It was clear why Enzo Maresca looked to the youngster to make an impact. He has made an instant impact despite only recently turning 18.
Chelsea v Sunderland - Premier League
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
There was also very little creativity in the XI who the Italian had picked for the game, including Joao Pedro after he finally started a game in his preferred Number 10 role.
Brazilian site GE Globo were full of praise for how Estevao managed to introduce himself into the game, however criticised his countryman for not being able to make his own mark.
They said: “Three Brazilians took to the field for Chelsea this Saturday. João Pedro was the only one to start, playing a bit deeper, and didn’t have a brilliant day. Estêvão, who stood out against Ajax, started on the bench and came on just 12 minutes into the second half.
“He was a prominent player and made some good plays, but he also struggled with the limited space Sunderland gave him. Andrey Santos was called into action in the 39th minute and received a yellow card shortly after.”
Joao Pedro gestures during Chelsea against Sunderland in the Premier League.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Concern over Joao Pedro
Despite an electric start to life at Chelsea at the Club World Cup, this season has seen the former Brighton man struggle in front of goal.
Maresca admitted Pedro has been struggling with his fitness, however has had to play due to other injury problems in the squad.
Despite this, the Brazilian has not been doing enough, and hasn’t registered a Premier League shot on target in the last two months.
With the imminent return of Liam Delap, there is optimism that there will be more to come from Pedro. The duo both starred against West Ham in their only real start together.