Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that his squad will be missing several key players for Saturday's Premier League clash against Tottenham. The most significant blow is the absence of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who will be sidelined for a few weeks after undergoing jaw surgery.
The keeper sustained a fractured jaw during Chelsea's recent 2-0 win against Everton. Addressing Martinez's situation, Alonso commented:
He has had surgery. We still need to wait. A couple of weeks. Hopefully, less.
In Martinez's absence, 21-year-old Mike Penders will take up the goalkeeping duties. The Chelsea boss expressed his full confidence in the young player:
He is ready.
As for other injury news, Malo Gusto has recovered and is available to play, while Pep Chavarria remains sidelined. Emanuel Emeha is improving his fitness, but Reece James and Jamie Gittens will also miss the upcoming derby.
It's worth noting that Chelsea have won their last six Premier League encounters against Tottenham.
