While there were not many positives for Chelsea to take from their first Premier League game of the season, there was a cameo from one of their brightest young stars for fans to get excited about.
The biggest cheer around Stamford Bridge came when Estevao Willian was brought on in the second half, replacing the underwhelming Jamie Gittens after his first start for the club.
Enzo Maresca was impressed by Estevao, and believes he will be a very important player for the Blues when he has fully adapted to his new side.
While he wasn’t able to provide the magic required to break down a stubborn but relatively comfortable Palace defence, he did create one of the best chances of the game after just coming on for Pedro Neto.
Estevao Willian gestures during Chelsea v Crystal Palace - Premier League
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The nation of Brazil would have had a keen eye on proceedings as three Chelsea players from the country made their Premier League debuts for their new side. Andrey Santos also featured from the bench, while Joao Pedro started the game up top.
Ge Globo noted that he instantly lifted the quality of the attack following his introduction, however he was guilty of missing a big chance in the second half.
They said: “Chelsea’s three Brazilians played in the draw in the first round of the English Championship. João Pedro started, while Estêvão and Andrey Santos came on in the second half. The match marked the young former Palmeiras player’s Premier League debut.
“He came on eight minutes into the second half, replacing Gittens, and was involved, making good runs down the right, before wasting a good scoring chance with a shot in the penalty area.”
Estevao Willian and Daniel Munoz challenge during Chelsea v Crystal Palace - Premier League
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Chelsea fans give Estevao verdict
Despite not starting the game, it was clear that supporters were very impressed with what they had seen from their new superstar.
It reached the point where Chelsea fans want Estevao to start the next game, with a trip across the capital awaiting the Blues on Friday night.
A start would see one of Gittens or Neto drop out, however neither particularly impressed in the first outing of the campaign.
Despite Maresca’s original wishes to ease him in gently, the fact he was used as the first sub against Palace suggests he already sees him as one of his best options in attack.