According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Chelsea have received a major boost ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Sunderland, as goalkeeper Emi Martinez has returned to first-team training following surgery on his fractured jaw.

The Blues travel to the Stadium of Light looking to build on their impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge last weekend.

Young goalkeeper Mike Penders kept a clean sheet against United while Martinez continued his recovery from the injury he sustained during Chelsea's victory over Everton last month.

However, the Argentine shot-stopper has now resumed training at Cobham while wearing protective facial equipment, potentially making him available for Sunday's encounter against Sunderland.

Head coach Xabi Alonso is expected to provide an update on his squad's fitness during Friday's pre-match press conference.

Moises Caicedo was missing from the section of Wednesday's training session open to the media, although Aaron Anselmino took part despite receiving a call-up to the Argentina squad for the upcoming international break.

Alonso is also expected to clarify Jordan Henderson's fitness after illness ruled him out of the Manchester United match. Romeo Lavia replaced the midfielder and delivered an impressive performance, potentially increasing his chances of keeping his place in the starting XI.

Estevao also impressed against United, giving Alonso another reason to retain the Brazilian youngster in his starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix, Jorrel Hato and captain Reece James remain sidelined. James is continuing his recovery from knee surgery and is not expected to return until January.

Jamie Gittens is another player unavailable for selection after picking up an ankle injury while representing England Under-21s last month. Alonso previously revealed that the winger would be out for several weeks.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Sunderland (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia, Chavarria; Estevao, Palmer; Rogers.

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

Doubts: Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson, Emi Martinez, Jorrel Hato, Aaron