Chelsea's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez sustained a serious injury in the closing stages of their win against Everton. The 25-year-old collided with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and was forced off the pitch, later being diagnosed with a broken jaw that required immediate surgery.
The medical team has confirmed that Martinez will be sidelined for at least 40 days, meaning he will miss a significant stretch of the season under manager Xabi Alonso.
Which matches will Martinez miss?
The goalkeeper is expected to be out for the next six matches for Chelsea:
- A derby against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
- An away trip to Anfield to face Liverpool.
- A home clash with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
- A fixture against Sunderland.
- A meeting with Leeds United.
- A showdown with Nottingham Forest.
The coaching staff have no intentions of rushing Martinez back onto the field due to the nature of the injury. This situation presents a crucial opportunity for second choice goalkeeper Mike Penders to step up and guard the Blues' net during a challenging series of matches ahead.
