According to a report by Football London on Monday, 2 November 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is hoping to welcome several important players back from injury as his side prepare for their Premier League trip to Sunderland on November 8.

Joao Pedro, Emi Martinez, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato are among the players whose availability could improve in the coming days, although several others remain sidelined.

Chelsea returned to winning ways on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. Morgan Rogers opened the scoring with an excellent solo effort before Cole Palmer converted a penalty.

However, Alonso continues to deal with several injury concerns ahead of the Sunderland fixture.

Joao Pedro remains a major doubt after suffering a thigh injury during training before Chelsea's defeat to Tottenham.

The Brazilian striker has scored five goals and provided three assists in six Premier League appearances this season.

Alonso previously confirmed that the forward would be unavailable for a few weeks, making November 21's home match against Leeds a possible return date.

Jordan Henderson missed the Manchester United victory because of illness rather than injury. The Chelsea manager confirmed that the midfielder had a fever, meaning he could return against Sunderland on November 8.

There is also encouraging news concerning Emi Martinez. The goalkeeper has been recovering from surgery on a broken jaw sustained during the victory over Everton last month.

Alonso has not ruled out an early return before the international break, although Martinez may need to wear a protective face mask. Mike Penders has deputised in his absence.

Meanwhile, Reece James is expected to remain unavailable until around mid-January following knee surgery, while Maxence Lacroix could also be sidelined until the New Year after suffering a hamstring injury against Liverpool.

Jorrel Hato remains unavailable because of a back problem, with his return date uncertain. Jamie Gittens and Aaron Anselmino are also facing several weeks on the sidelines.