Anfield Cup Exit Leaves Chelsea's Estevao On The Bench

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso kept Estevao Willian out of his squad for the Carabao Cup tie at Anfield on Tuesday night, a decision that drew criticism from travelling fans and television pundits after Chelsea lost the shootout to Liverpool.

The match finished 1-1 after normal time. Cody Gakpo scored from the spot for Liverpool and Morgan Rogers converted a penalty for Chelsea before the shootout decided the tie in Liverpool's favor. Liverpool now face Bournemouth, the former club of Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, in the quarter-finals.

Estevao, 19, has 14 caps for Brazil. He has started three games this season for Chelsea. Alonso said after the match that the player 'could be happier' with his role.

'I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure,' Alonso said. 'Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team.'

Alonso pointed to substitutions forced by cramp and fitness issues during the game. He said Moises Caicedo and Malo Gusto both had problems. 'So we were a little bit forced with substitutions,' Alonso said.

Fans in the Chelsea end chanted for Estevao during the match. Alonso said he heard them. 'The fans were saying a lot of things,' he said.

Clinton Morrison, a former Premier League striker, questioned the decision on BBC Radio 5 Live. 'How Estevao has not got on the pitch tonight I do not know,' Morrison said. 'He must be thinking, what do I have to do? We have injuries to two of the star players up front and I am still not getting on the pitch.'

Jobi McAnuff said the question of Estevao's role needed an answer soon. 'I think it is one Xabi Alonso has to answer very soon,' McAnuff said. 'In a game like today he is a difference maker.'

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola said after the win: 'I think it was quite a level game. Very competitive, not a lot of chances for both teams.'

Alonso said the season would offer opportunities for all his players. 'We know that the season is going to be long and there will be moments for everyone,' he said. 'I am sure the season is going to be long and Este is going to play his role.'