Chelsea and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has eased fears of a lengthy spell on the sidelines, revealing he expects to return to action “in a few weeks” after undergoing surgery for a broken jaw sustained during Saturday’s 2–0 Premier League victory over Everton.
The 34-year-old World Cup winner was stretchered off following an eight-minute stoppage at Hill Dickinson Stadium after a heavy collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the second half.
Martínez received treatment on the pitch before being taken to hospital, where he underwent surgery. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso later confirmed that the goalkeeper had also suffered a concussion.
In a social media post on Sunday, Martínez reassured fans that his operation had gone well and indicated that his absence would not be prolonged.
“Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well.
“The most important thing is that we won and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we’ll be back,” he wrote.
His update will provide encouragement for Chelsea as they assess their goalkeeping options ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.
Mike Penders, who replaced Martínez to make his Premier League debut against Everton, is expected to feature in Chelsea’s upcoming matches while the Argentine recovers.
Chelsea face Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the league, with a Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool scheduled between the two fixtures.
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