Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior hailed teenage winger Estevao after the 18-year-old played a starring role in Sunday’s 3-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.

The Brazilian opened the scoring in the 34th minute with his first goal since November, sprinting from his own half to capitalise on a misplaced back pass from Jaydee Canvot. He then turned provider early in the second half, setting up compatriot João Pedro to double Chelsea’s advantage.

Rosenior was full of praise for the young forward’s impact and work ethic.

“He’s a player with special abilities and special talent,” the Chelsea boss said. “What makes me so happy is that all 11 players get back behind the ball. That’s why he finds space. It was a top team performance away from home.”

Appointed earlier this month, Rosenior described the win as a major step forward for his side, who secured their third consecutive victory in all competitions. Enzo Fernández added Chelsea’s third from the penalty spot in the 64th minute to put the result beyond doubt.

However, the manager admitted there is still room for improvement at the back after 10-man Palace pulled a goal back late on through Chris Richards.

“It’s a game of mistakes, and it’s going to take time,” Rosenior explained. “Our understanding of building from the back will improve with repetition. We want to improve, but we also want to win now, and that has to be our focus for Wednesday.”

Chelsea have now won four of their five matches under Rosenior, and travelling supporters showed their appreciation by chanting the manager’s name after the final whistle.

Despite the growing optimism, Rosenior insisted his attention is firmly on the upcoming trip to Napoli, where Chelsea will battle to stay inside the Champions League’s top eight and secure direct qualification for the round of 16.

“This team was playing good football before I arrived,” he added. “It’s not about being a Liam Rosenior team. It’s about being a winning team, and I was really pleased with the performance today.”