Starboy: Estevao
Chelsea Football Newsletter
That has prompted calls from some in the Chelsea fanbase for the Brazil international to start for Friday’s London derby away to West Ham.
But Maresca said he is mindful of the young star’s age and came across as reluctant to start Estevao in the Premier League at this early point of the season. If he does not start, it is expected that Pedro Neto and Jamie Gittens will remain the starting players on either flank at the London Stadium.
“He is doing well, since he arrived with us,” Maresca said. “Even in the training sessions. But, for me, he needs a path.
“He is very young, so we have to be careful. He can be an option for tomorrow from the start, for sure, after the Palace performance. But we will see also after [Friday’s training] session, and then we will decide.”
Countrymen: Andrey Santos and Estevao
Toothless Crystal Palace edge narrow first-leg win over Fredrikstad
Crystal Palace miss Eze's spark as Glasner in race to find solution
Crystal Palace vs Fredrikstad: Conference League play-off — LIVE
Inside 100 Kensington: west London’s luxurious new housing development
“I’m very happy with Andrey,” Maresca said. “I’m very happy with Andrey staying here with us.
“He can play in Enzo’s position for sure, he can play in Moises’ position for sure. He played one game in the Club World Cup against Palmeiras where he was very good as a No6. The good thing is he can play in both positions very well.”