Estevao was finally given the chance he deserved against Manchester United, but Chelsea supporters shouldn't expect him to start against Sunderland on Sunday.

The Brazilian was one of the standout performers during the 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge, showing exactly why so many fans have been frustrated by his lack of minutes under Xabi Alonso.

However, the next Premier League fixture presents a very different challenge. Sunderland are an extremely competitive side physically, and that could be enough to convince the Chelsea manager to leave his teenage star on the bench again.

Xabi Alonso has reason to drop Estevao against Sunderland

There was a reason Alonso finally handed Estevao a starting opportunity against Manchester United, and it had more to do with Manchester United than anything else.

According to the Daily Mail, Alonso viewed United as a defensively vulnerable opponent and believed the Brazilian could exploit their weaknesses.

That proved to be a good decision, with Estevao causing problems throughout the game and coming close to getting on the scoresheet himself.

However, Sunderland are nothing like the same sort of team as the Red Devils.

Regis Le Bris has built a competitive side that is more than capable of making life uncomfortable for Premier League opponents.

The Black Cats' physicality has been an important part of their success since being promoted, with the Sunderland manager previously highlighting the importance of having strong players to compete at this level.

"With the standards of the Premier League, you need to have a strong physicality," Le Bris told Sky Sports in February.

Alonso has also spoken about the demands of English football. He explained that the Premier League's intensity means players need to be physically ready for the challenge.

The Chelsea manager has already been cautious with Estevao, who is still adapting to the demands of English football. The youngster has enormous technical ability, but there are occasions when Alonso prefers a more robust type of player.

And that could make Sunday's fixture particularly difficult for a player like Estevao.

Chelsea shouldn't punish Estevao for doing exactly what was asked

There is an argument that Estevao has done everything possible to earn another start.

He was patient despite being overlooked, took his opportunity against Manchester United and showed that he can make a real big difference to Chelsea's attack.

It would be frustrating if he were dropped again, especially when fans have been calling for Alonso to give him more game time.

However, the manager will have to consider the opposition and which players he thinks will give Chelsea the best chance of winning.

Sunderland's physical approach could make this a very different contest, and Alonso may feel that other attackers are better suited to it.

That doesn't mean Estevao should be restricted to only starting against teams that struggle at the back. Chelsea signed him because they believe he can become one of the best attacking players in the world, and he needs opportunities to develop.

Still, we shouldn't be surprised if he returned to the bench on Sunday.