- Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez is expected to be out for a few weeks after undergoing successful surgery for a head injury sustained against Everton.
- Manager Xabi Alonso confirmed Martinez is recovering well following a head collision with Jarrad Branthwaite during Chelsea's 2-0 win at Everton.
- Second-choice Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders will replace Martinez, starting in Saturday's London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
- Alonso expressed full confidence in the 21-year-old, praising his personality and readiness to step into the starting lineup.
- The manager highlighted strong resemblances between Penders and former Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, describing him as a keeper for the present and future
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Xabi Alonso provides Emi Martinez return timeline after horror head injury