Estevao shows 'exciting vision into the future'

Chelsea winger Estevao Willian offered an exciting vision into the future in his first appearance at Stamford Bridge.

It took the 18-year-old just 18 minutes to score in the 2-0 win against Bayer Leverkusen, when he confidently stroked in the rebound from Cole Palmer's chipped effort.

Fellow Brazilian and summer signing Joao Pedro drilled the second with almost the final kick of the game but it was Estevao's deft touches and flair that brough the most entertainment.

Regarded as potentially the best talent Brazil has produced in this generation, Estevao made life difficult for his marker Alejandro Grimaldo as he started the game on the right wing and finished in the number 10 position.

Even more exciting for fans was how he linked up with Palmer, the two left-footed attackers looking like the top kids at school and searching for each other at every moment.

Naturally, as two left footed attackers playing off the right, they sparked multiple attacks, which was impressive given the only language they share is a footballing one.

Palmer went off at half-time but Estevao continued to delight the fans, almost extending the lead in the 65th minute, drawing 'oohs and aahs' from the fans.

Fellow new signings Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato made their first Chelsea appearances while Andrey Santos played well in midfield on his first appearance at Stamford Bridge after an 18-month loan spell at Strasbourg.

Pedro, Liam Delap and Dario Essugo all featured in the Club World Cup but made their bows at Stamford Bridge on an impressive night overall for Chelsea who proved they had no hangover from the month-long Fifa tournament.

And, having scored against Chelsea for his former club Palmeiras at the Club World Cup, Estevao's performance added another chapter to his growing folklore during 76 exciting minutes.