According to a report by Evening Standard on Monday, November 2, 2026, Chelsea have received encouraging injury updates following their 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United, with Jordan Henderson and Emi Martinez both moving closer to a return ahead of their trip to Sunderland.

The Blues secured an important win against Michael Carrick's side at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer scoring the goals.

However, manager Xabi Alonso still has several injury concerns to deal with as Chelsea prepare for their next Premier League fixture on November 8.

Joao Pedro remains one of the club's major absentees after suffering a thigh injury during training ahead of Chelsea's defeat to Tottenham.

The Brazilian striker has missed the team's recent matches, with Alonso confirming that he would be sidelined for several weeks.

The Chelsea manager admitted that the forward's absence was a significant setback, describing him as an important player for the team.

Joao Pedro has also struggled with a knee problem this season and previously consulted a specialist in an effort to speed up his recovery.

Chelsea are expected to handle his return carefully, with the striker unlikely to feature again before the November international break. His potential comeback date has been pencilled in for November 21, when the Blues host Leeds United.

Meanwhile, Henderson missed Saturday's victory over Manchester United due to illness.

The midfielder had played the full 90 minutes against his former club Liverpool in the Carabao Cup but was unavailable for the Premier League clash after developing a fever.

Alonso clarified that Henderson was not injured but was simply unwell and unable to travel with the squad.

The Chelsea manager said: "He's ill. There's no injury, but he was not feeling well yesterday and today had a fever in the morning, so he was not feeling good enough to come with the team."

Henderson is expected to recover in time for Chelsea's visit to Sunderland on November 8.

Martinez is another player who could return earlier than initially expected.

The Argentine goalkeeper has been out of action since suffering a broken jaw during Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Everton last month.

He sustained the injury following an accidental collision with England defender Jarrad Branthwaite before undergoing successful surgery.

However, his recovery has reportedly progressed well, raising hopes that he could return before the November international break.

Alonso confirmed that Martinez could feature against Sunderland, although Chelsea will continue to monitor his condition before making a final decision.

The goalkeeper may also wear a protective face mask when he returns to action.

Chelsea's backup goalkeeper Mike Penders has stepped in during Martinez's absence and impressed with an important stoppage-time save against Manchester United, following a difficult Premier League debut against Tottenham.

The possible returns of Henderson and Martinez would provide a boost for Alonso as Chelsea look to build on their victory over Manchester United.

However, the Blues are expected to remain patient with Joao Pedro, whose return is not anticipated until later in November.