According to a report by the Evening Standard on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Mike Penders is expected to make his first Premier League start when Chelsea host Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 24, following a major injury setback for goalkeeper Emi Martinez.

The 21-year-old is set to continue in goal after replacing Martinez during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton last weekend. Martinez suffered a head injury following a collision at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and subsequently underwent jaw surgery.

Chelsea are expected to place their trust in Penders as they prepare for the London derby, with the young goalkeeper potentially facing an extended run in the starting lineup during Martinez’s recovery.

Manager Xabi Alonso could retain much of the team that has helped Chelsea secure consecutive Premier League victories by an aggregate scoreline of 7-1.

Jordan Henderson and Moises Caicedo are expected to continue their partnership in central midfield, while Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers could feature in attacking positions.

Pedro Neto is also in contention to retain his place at right wing-back after scoring both goals in the victory over Everton.

At the back, Josh Acheampong could start again as Alonso considers his defensive options. The Chelsea academy graduate has attracted the manager’s attention, while Wesley Fofana has been left out of the starting lineup for the previous two matches.

However, Chelsea have several injury concerns heading into the encounter. Captain Reece James is not expected to return until January following knee surgery, while winger Jamie Gittens remains sidelined after sustaining an ankle injury while on international duty with England’s Under-21s.

Striker Emmanuel Emegha is also a doubt after suffering a setback during training, leaving his availability for the Tottenham fixture uncertain.

Malo Gusto missed the Everton match because of illness, while Pep Chavarria picked up a minor injury during training and was replaced by Jorrel Hato in the lineup against Everton. Both players’ availability will need to be assessed ahead of Saturday’s game.

Alonso is scheduled to address the media on Friday, when he is expected to provide further information about the fitness of his squad.

Chelsea will host Tottenham at Stamford Bridge at 5:30pm BST on Saturday, October 24, with the Blues looking to extend their winning run in the Premier League.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Tottenham (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Palestra, Caicedo, Henderson, Chavarria; Rogers, Palmer; Joao Pedro.