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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso claims Emi Martinez is on course to make his comeback earlier than predicted.

Reports in Argentina had suggested that the 34-year-old would need between 45 and 60 days to recover from the broken jaw he suffered against Everton last weekend.

However, speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Alonso said that Martinez could return to action in less than a few weeks:

“He is doing better. He had the surgery, and day by day he is feeling better. We still need to wait. A few weeks. Hopefully less rather than more.”

“We need to listen to the opinion of the doctors as well. Considering it was a bad one, he is doing good.”

Which fixture could Martinez return for?

If we take Alonso at his word, we could see the keeper back in goal within two to three weeks. It still means it is touch and go for him to be back before the next international break.

The Blues face Sunderland on Sunday 8th November, which is the last match prior to the two-week gap for Nations League fixtures.

Latest Chelsea injury news

Alonso has also revealed that Pep Chavarria won’t be in contention to face Tottenham, having not recovered from the knock he sustained prior to the 2-0 win over Everton.

Malo Gusto is, however, back in the squad. The France international missed the trip to Merseyside due to illness.

Emmanuel Emegha was expected to train this week, but Alonso says the striker is out of the London derby. The Dutchman has yet to make his debut since his move from Strasbourg last summer.

Jamie Gittens (ankle) and Reece James (knee) remain on the treatment table, along with Emegha, Chavarria and Martinez.