Chelsea have received a significant boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Sunderland, as Emi Martinez has returned to first-team training after recovering from a fractured jaw.

According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Friday, November 6, 2026, the Argentine goalkeeper has resumed training at Cobham while wearing protective facial equipment, increasing the possibility of him featuring in Sunday's encounter at the Stadium of Light.

Martinez suffered the injury during Chelsea's victory over Everton last month. His recovery has progressed faster than initially expected, although head coach Xabi Alonso must decide whether to bring him straight back into the starting lineup or continue with Mike Penders, who performed impressively in his absence and recorded a clean sheet against Manchester United.

Moises Caicedo is another fitness concern for Chelsea after experiencing discomfort following their 2-0 victory over Manchester United.

The midfielder was absent from the section of Wednesday's training session that was open to journalists, raising questions about his availability for the weekend fixture.

Meanwhile, Aaron Anselmino has returned to training after recovering from injury and has also been called up to the Argentina national team.

Romeo Lavia could maintain his place in midfield following his impressive display against Manchester United, while Estevao is also hoping to retain his starting position after producing an encouraging performance.

However, Chelsea remain without several injured players. Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix and Jorrel Hato are still unavailable, while captain Reece James continues to recover from knee surgery and is not expected to return until January.

Jamie Gittens is another absentee after picking up an ankle injury while representing England Under-21s last month.

Alonso is therefore unlikely to make too many changes to the team that defeated Manchester United, although the fitness situations of Martinez and Caicedo could influence his final selection.

Chelsea's predicted starting XI (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia, Chavarria; Estevao, Palmer; Rogers.

Injured: Joao Pedro, Reece James, Maxence Lacroix, Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato.

Doubts: Emi Martinez and Moises Caicedo.

Martinez's return to training represents an important boost for Chelsea, but Alonso will need to carefully evaluate his condition before deciding whether to change the team that secured an impressive victory over Manchester United.