Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez could return for Sunday's Premier League trip to Sunderland after resuming training following surgery on a broken jaw.
The Argentina international has missed three matches since suffering the injury against Everton, but was pictured training at Cobham on Wednesday wearing a protective face mask.
Xabi Alonso's side travel to the Stadium of Light following their 2-0 victory over Manchester United, although several first-team players remain unavailable.
Emi Martinez closing in on Chelsea return
Martinez underwent surgery after sustaining a fractured jaw during Chelsea's victory at Everton on 17 October.
An absence of approximately six weeks was initially anticipated, but his recovery has progressed more quickly than expected.
Alonso confirmed before the Manchester United match that the goalkeeper could be available against Sunderland.
"Yes, there is a chance. We need to still wait for next week, but let's see how things go," Alonso said. "But there is a chance."
The Chelsea manager also indicated that Martinez would probably need to wear a protective mask if selected.
His return would create a selection decision for Alonso, with Mike Penders having deputised during the Argentine's absence.
Potential return: 8 November — Sunderland (A), subject to fitness clearance.
Joao Pedro and Maxence Lacroix remain sidelined
Joao Pedro has been absent with a thigh injury sustained in training and is unlikely to feature before the November international break.
Chelsea have not confirmed an exact return date for the Brazilian.
Potential return: 21 November — Leeds United (H).
Maxence Lacroix suffered a hamstring problem during the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool.
Alonso has indicated that the defender will remain unavailable until after the international break, although the precise recovery timetable is unclear.
Potential return: After the November international break.
Captain Reece James is also recovering from knee surgery. Reports suggest a return around mid-January, but Chelsea have not announced a definitive date.
Henderson and Hato could boost Chelsea squad
Jordan Henderson could return against his former club Sunderland after missing the Manchester United victory through illness.
Alonso confirmed that the midfielder had been suffering from a fever rather than an injury.
Jorrel Hato is another potential option as he works towards full fitness following a back problem.
Meanwhile, Aaron Anselmino has resumed training after several injury setbacks but is not yet ready for selection.
Jamie Gittens also remains sidelined with an ankle injury, with no confirmed date for his return.
Key Points
- Martinez has resumed training after surgery on a broken jaw.
- The goalkeeper could face Sunderland wearing a protective mask.
- Joao Pedro and Lacroix are expected to miss Sunday's match.
- Henderson and Hato could return to the squad.
- Reece James remains sidelined following knee surgery.
What's Next?
Chelsea visit Sunderland on Sunday, 8 November, before hosting Leeds United on 21 November.
Alonso must assess Martinez's readiness and decide whether to restore him to the starting XI or retain Penders, while late fitness checks will determine Henderson's and Hato's availability.
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