According to a report by London Evening Standard on Sunday, November 8, 2026, Emi Martinez has returned to Chelsea training after recovering from a fractured jaw, giving head coach Xabi Alonso another option ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Sunderland.

The Argentine goalkeeper was spotted back at Cobham wearing protective facial equipment. Martinez sustained the injury during Chelsea’s victory over Everton last month, but his recovery has progressed faster than initially expected. However, his return to training does not necessarily mean he will immediately reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

Mike Penders has deputised during Martinez’s absence and strengthened his chances of remaining the first-choice goalkeeper after keeping a clean sheet against Manchester United. Alonso must now decide whether Martinez is ready to feature or whether Penders should continue between the posts at the Stadium of Light.

Chelsea are also monitoring the fitness of Moises Caicedo. The midfielder reportedly experienced discomfort following the 2-0 victory over Manchester United and was absent from the portion of Wednesday’s training session that was open to journalists. His availability for Sunday’s encounter therefore remains uncertain.

There have also been encouraging developments within the squad. Aaron Anselmino has returned to training after recovering from an injury and has earned an international call-up from Argentina. Romeo Lavia could retain his midfield position after his performance against United, while Estevao is also competing to keep his place in the starting team.

However, several players remain sidelined through injury. Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix and Jorrel Hato are still unavailable, while captain Reece James continues his recovery from knee surgery and is not expected back until January. Jamie Gittens is also out after suffering an ankle injury while representing England Under-21s last month.

Chelsea’s predicted formation is 3-4-2-1, with Penders in goal; Acheampong, Fofana and Colwill in defence; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia and Chavarria in midfield; and Estevao and Palmer operating behind Rogers.

Caicedo features in the predicted lineup despite doubts surrounding his fitness, while Martinez is also considered a doubt. The club’s injured players include Joao Pedro, James, Lacroix, Gittens and Hato.

Alonso’s final selection decisions will depend on the fitness assessments of Martinez and Caicedo. Chelsea could otherwise make only a few changes to the team that defeated Manchester United, with Penders’ recent performances offering a strong alternative in goal.