According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday November 5, 2026, Chelsea have received encouraging news ahead of Sunday's Premier League encounter with Sunderland, with goalkeeper Emi Martinez returning to first-team training after recovering from surgery on his fractured jaw.

The Blues travel to the Stadium of Light hoping to secure another victory following their impressive 2-0 triumph over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge last weekend.

Young goalkeeper Mike Penders delivered a clean-sheet performance against United while Martinez continued recovering from the injury sustained during Chelsea's victory over Everton last month.

However, the Argentine goalkeeper has resumed training at Cobham wearing protective facial equipment, potentially putting him in contention for Sunday's fixture against Sunderland.

Xabi Alonso is expected to provide further information about his players' fitness when he addresses the media during Friday's pre-match press conference.

Moises Caicedo was absent from the portion of Wednesday's training session available to journalists, although Aaron Anselmino participated after receiving a call-up to represent Argentina during the upcoming international break.

Alonso is also expected to clarify Jordan Henderson's condition after illness forced him to miss the Manchester United encounter. Romeo Lavia replaced him and impressed, potentially strengthening his chances of retaining his starting position.

Estevao also produced an encouraging display against United, making it difficult for Alonso to consider dropping the Brazilian youngster from his starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix, Jorrel Hato and captain Reece James remain unavailable. James continues recovering from knee surgery and is not expected back until January.

Jamie Gittens is another absentee after suffering an ankle injury while representing England Under-21s last month. Alonso previously confirmed that the winger would require several weeks to recover.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Sunderland (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia, Chavarria; Estevao, Palmer; Rogers.

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

Doubts: Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson, Emi Martinez, Jorrel Hato, Aaron Anselmino..