According to a report by London Evening Standard on Friday, November 6, 2026, Chelsea have received a significant boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Sunderland, with goalkeeper Emi Martinez returning to first-team training after recovering from a fractured jaw.

The Argentine shot-stopper has resumed training at Cobham while wearing protective facial equipment, raising the possibility of his return for Sunday's encounter at the Stadium of Light.

Martinez suffered the injury during Chelsea's victory over Everton last month. His recovery has progressed faster than expected, although head coach Xabi Alonso must decide whether to bring him straight back into the starting lineup or continue with Mike Penders, who impressed during his absence and kept a clean sheet against Manchester United.

Moises Caicedo is another fitness concern for the Blues after experiencing discomfort following their 2-0 victory over Manchester United.

The midfielder was absent from the portion of Wednesday's training session that was open to journalists, leaving doubts over his availability for the weekend fixture.

Meanwhile, Aaron Anselmino has returned to training after recovering from an injury and has also received a call-up to the Argentina national team.

Romeo Lavia could keep his place in midfield after producing an impressive performance against Manchester United, while Estevao is also hoping to retain his starting position following his encouraging display.

However, Chelsea remain without several injured players. Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix and Jorrel Hato are still unavailable, while captain Reece James continues his recovery from knee surgery and is not expected to return until January.

Jamie Gittens is another absentee after sustaining an ankle injury while representing England Under-21s last month.

Alonso could therefore make only a few changes to the team that defeated Manchester United, with the fitness of Martinez and Caicedo likely to influence his final selection.

Chelsea's predicted starting XI (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia, Chavarria; Estevao, Palmer; Rogers.

Injured: Joao Pedro, Reece James, Maxence Lacroix, Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato.

Doubts: Emi Martinez and Moises Caicedo.

Martinez's return offers Chelsea an important selection boost, but Alonso will need to assess his condition carefully before deciding whether to make changes to the side that secured victory over Manchester United.