Emi Martinez pushing for early Chelsea injury return from broken jaw

Chelsea goalkeeper Martinez is optimistic of returning from his broken jaw sooner than the initial few-week estimate after undergoing surgery.

Emiliano Martinez suffered a broken jaw in a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during Chelsea's 2-0 win at Everton two weeks ago and was stretchered off the pitch. He has since undergone surgery and initially indicated he would be sidelined for a few weeks, a timeline manager Xabi Alonso confirmed. However, Standard Sport understands there is now optimism Martinez could return ahead of schedule.

In his absence, 21-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders has deputised. Penders made his full Premier League debut in Chelsea's 2-0 defeat to Tottenham, where he scored an own goal by punching Mateus Fernandes' corner into the net. He impressed in the Carabao Cup penalty shootout exit to Liverpool on Wednesday, saving Ryan Gravenberch's penalty. Penders is set to retain his place for Chelsea's match against Manchester United on Saturday.