Xabi Alonso agrees with comparisons between Mike Penders and Thibaut Courtois and has revealed he spoke with Courtois at the World Cup to ask him about Chelsea’s young goalkeeper.

Penders became the youngest Premier League goalkeeper in Chelsea’s history when he came off the bench at Everton last weekend and is now set for a run in the team while Emi Martinez is sidelined following surgery on a fractured jaw.

Penders and the Real Madrid and former Chelsea goalkeeper Courtois are both Belgian and both products of Genk’s academy, known for producing top goalkeepers.

On Friday in his press conference, ahead of starting Penders against Tottenham, Alonso was asked if he can see why Penders, 21, is often likened to Real’s world-class shot-stopper.

“A lot, a lot,” he replied. “Not just for their nationality. For their stature. Both left-footed. Both dominant in the air.

“I spoke with Thibaut as well when he was at the World Cup, to ask him about Mike. He said himself he could see resemblances with Mike.

“We need to help him, support him, but for sure he is a keeper for the moment and for the future.”

Alonso continued: “He is ready. He has been training well. He has played a couple of [Carabao] Cup games when he showed he has a good level.

“Even the other day when he come on against Everton, he showed his personality and qualities. We are fully convinced that Mike can play very well. I think Mike is a good keeper for now and for the future, learning from a goalkeeper with the experience of Emi.”

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