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Chelsea have confirmed that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has undergone successful surgery after suffering a fractured jaw during Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton.
The Argentina international was rushed to hospital following a nasty collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the second half of the encounter at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Martinez required lengthy treatment on the pitch, with medical personnel attending to him for approximately ten minutes before he was carried off on a stretcher.
According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea have now issued an official statement confirming that the goalkeeper suffered a fractured jaw and concussion.
The statement read: “Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has undergone successful surgery on a fractured jaw.
“Martinez was injured following a collision midway through the second half of our 2-0 victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday.
“Martinez was taken to hospital for further assessment, which confirmed a fractured jaw that required surgery.
“Everyone at Chelsea wishes Emi a speedy recovery and will support him throughout.”
Speaking immediately after the encounter, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso revealed that Martinez had been conscious when he was taken to hospital.
The Spanish tactician said: “As far as I know, he left the stadium conscious. Now he is in the hospital doing precautionary tests. Let’s see, but this is what I know so far.”
Martinez has since provided an encouraging update on his recovery, revealing that he hopes to return to action in a few weeks.
The former Aston Villa goalkeeper had impressed before his unfortunate withdrawal, producing two important saves to keep Everton at bay.
Chelsea eventually secured a 2-0 victory courtesy of two goals from Pedro Neto, ending their wait for a Premier League clean sheet that stretched back to January.
Neto subsequently dedicated the victory to Martinez, acknowledging the goalkeeper’s contribution before his injury.
Despite the successful operation, Chelsea have yet to announce an official timeframe for Martinez’s return.
Chelsea will now monitor Martinez’s recovery, with the Argentine hoping to return to action as soon as he receives medical clearance.