Chelsea star eyeing early return from injury

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · EPL Index ↗

Chelsea's Emiliano Martinez is expected to return from a broken jaw sooner than initially anticipated, according to a report from Standard Sport cited by EPL Index. Martinez suffered the injury during Chelsea's 2-0 win at Everton when he collided with Jarrad Branthwaite. He has already undergone surgery and had previously stated he would be back in a few weeks. The development is seen as potentially significant for Chelsea's defensive consistency.

Martinez has become an important figure for Chelsea since joining from Aston Villa for £7.5million in the summer, starting six straight Premier League matches before being injured. His absence has been felt, with Chelsea managing only one clean sheet this season. Mike Penders has filled in, but his inexperience has led to some significant mistakes, including an own goal against Tottenham.

If Martinez returns ahead of schedule, he is expected to replace Penders, who is likely to start against Manchester United on Saturday. Martinez's presence is seen as crucial for providing experience, authority, and reliability in goal, which could help calm Chelsea's defensive issues and provide a firmer spine for the team as they push for a higher league position.