Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Winstanley and Stewart for Chelsea
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Mike Penders becomes youngest goalkeeper to play for Chelsea in the Premier League
Penders’ appearance at the Hill Dickinson Stadium saw him become the youngest goalkeeper to play for Chelsea in a Premier League match at the age of 21 years and 78 days. That accomplishment did not cause him to forget about Martinez, though.
On Instagram, the Belgian wished the Argentine a speedy recovery. In a post following the game, Penders said: “A very proud moment for me and my family to make my Premier League debut with Chelsea. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Emi Martinez.”
Chelsea’s next match is a London derby against fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur. It will give Penders a chance to really endear himself to the Chelsea supporters.
After that, the Blues have another tough game, taking on Liverpool at Anfield in the Carabao Cup. It is going to be a real baptism of fire for Penders.
However, his cameo in the win over Everton was promising and something for him to really build on.
Mike Penders’ stats vs Everton
Penders was only on the pitch for 15 minutes, but he still managed to make one save, one high claim and one punch, according to Sofascore. The two run-outs he attempted were also successful.
Former Premier League goalkeeper Shaka Hislop can envision Chelsea spending £100m on a shot-stopper one day, but they should not have to. Penders has the potential to be their No.1, and at 21, the Blues could have him for a long time.
Tottenham and Liverpool will be tests for Penders, but if the former Genk man passes them, perhaps he could become Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper sooner than expected.