LIVERPOOL — Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez says he will be back "in a few weeks" after undergoing an operation following his side's 2-0 Premier League victory at Everton on Saturday at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The 34-year-old Argentina international, who joined Chelsea this summer after six seasons at Aston Villa, reportedly broke his jaw after a head collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the second half. Martinez required eight minutes of treatment on the pitch before leaving on a stretcher and being taken to hospital, with manager Xabi Alonso later confirming he was concussed. Writing on social media on Sunday in a hospital gown, Martinez said: "Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well. The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we'll be back."
Mike Penders, who replaced Martinez to make his Premier League debut, looks set to deputise for at least the next three fixtures. The 21-year-old, signed from Belgian club Genk for £17m in 2024, has previously featured in cup matches. Alonso said: "Mike has personality. He's brave and we have full trust with him. He did well when he came on. He played in the cup games and whenever he's needed. Like the other players, whenever they are needed they can perform. It's all about the squad - that all the players feel important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that's very positive."
Chelsea, who kept a clean sheet on Merseyside to secure the three points, now face a demanding run with Premier League matches against Tottenham and Manchester United either side of a Carabao Cup tie at Liverpool.