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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has named Mike Penders in goal for the Premier League meeting with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge, while Joao Pedro has been left out of the starting lineup. Geovany Quenda has also been handed a place in attack.
According to a report by London Evening Standard on Saturday, October 24, 2026, Penders will make his first Premier League start following Emi Martinez's injury in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Everton last weekend.
The 21-year-old made history in that game when he replaced the injured Argentine, becoming Chelsea's youngest-ever Premier League goalkeeper. Martinez is currently recovering from jaw surgery after suffering a serious head collision against Everton.
Chelsea are confident that Penders can take responsibility in goal while their first-choice goalkeeper continues his recovery.
In midfield, Alonso has kept Jordan Henderson and Moises Caicedo together. The pair have helped Chelsea win their last two Premier League matches by an aggregate score of 7-1 and will be expected to play important roles against Tottenham.
Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers have also retained their places in attack. However, Joao Pedro's absence has opened the door for Quenda to start, while Pedro Neto keeps his right wing-back position after scoring both goals against Everton.
Josh Acheampong has been selected in defence alongside Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill. Wesley Fofana will begin the match on the bench, while Malo Gusto has returned to the squad after recovering from illness.
Pep Chavarria remains unavailable after picking up a minor injury in training before the Everton match.
Chelsea captain Reece James is still recovering from knee surgery and is not expected back until January. Jamie Gittens remains out with an ankle injury, while Emmanuel Emegha has suffered a setback in training that will delay his competitive debut.
Check Out Chelsea Starting Lineup: Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Henderson, Caicedo, Hato; Palmer, Quenda, Rogers.