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Pat Nevin shares what he noticed about ‘special’ Estevao Willian after Chelsea heroics vs Liverpool

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Chelsea left it late against Liverpool to secure a home win via Estevao Willian’s goal in stoppage time. Afterwards, Pat Nevin couldn’t contain his excitement about the Brazilian teenager.

The Blues go into the international break off the back of a dramatic 2-1 victory against rivals Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

Even though Moises Caicedo put Chelsea ahead in the first half with a stunning strike, Cody Gakpo equalised just past the hour mark. There was time for Enzo Maresca’s side to regain the lead, though.

In the 95th minute, Chelsea substitute Estevao Willian converted Marc Cucurella’s cross to score his first competitive goal for the club and clinch three points in the Premier League. Incidentally, Estevao celebrated with Cole Palmer at full-time on the Stamford Bridge turf.

Estevao Willian celebrates with Cole Palmer after Chelsea beat Liverpool in the Premier League.
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images

Pat Nevin noticed every player wants to pass to Estevao Willian

Despite playing just 15 minutes off the bench against Liverpool, Estevao showed why Chelsea fans were so excited they managed to sign the rising star.

According to Pat Nevin, Chelsea have something quite “special” in Brazilian wonderkid Estevao. He noticed that all of his teammates are eager to look up and give him possession at every opportunity, which is a clear sign of his influence.

Nevin told BBC Radio 5 Live: “One thing I will say about Estevao is that every time any Chelsea player gets the ball, they try to find him. That tells you a story about a player.

“An 18-year-old but everyone wants to give him the ball every time they’ve got it. That just shows what he’s capable of and what he’s doing in training. He’s going to be special.”

Pat Nevin working as a pundit for the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images

Estevao Willian is already making his mark at Chelsea

The way that Estevao has turned up and settled so quickly in his new home is admirable. Let’s not forget he’s still only 18, too!

Even though it was his first goal of the season against Liverpool, he’s looked a threat whenever he’s played for Maresca’s team.

As you can see above, Estevao has a higher expected goals and expected assists per 90 in the Premier League this season compared to every other attacking midfielder and winger.

Chelsea supporters desperately want Estevao to play 90 minutes, something he still hasn’t done for them. It feels like it is just a matter of time before he becomes an integral part of the XI, though.