Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is hoping to return ahead of schedule as he continues his recovery from a broken jaw sustained earlier this month.
The Argentina international suffered the injury during Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 17.
Martinez was injured in a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and subsequently required surgery.
The 34-year-old initially suggested he would be sidelined for several weeks, but there is now growing optimism that he could return sooner than anticipated.
According to The Athletic, sources familiar with his rehabilitation believe the goalkeeper is making encouraging progress and could shorten his recovery period.
However, no definitive comeback date has been established, and Chelsea will continue monitoring his condition before considering him for selection.
Martinez joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in August for a reported £7.5million and has since established himself as an important option in goal.
He has made six appearances for the Blues, keeping his first clean sheet during the victory over Everton before being forced off.
His absence has presented an opportunity for young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders, who replaced him during that match.
The 21-year-old subsequently made his first Premier League start against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
However, Penders endured a difficult afternoon as Chelsea suffered a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge, with the youngster making an error for Tottenham’s opening goal.
He produced a more encouraging display against Liverpool in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup encounter, although Chelsea were eliminated following a penalty shootout.
Despite that disappointment, the Belgian’s recent involvement has provided him with valuable first-team experience during Martinez’s absence.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso will nevertheless welcome the prospect of having his experienced goalkeeper available again.
Martinez arrived in west London after a successful spell with Aston Villa and brings considerable international experience to the squad.
The Argentine played a prominent role in his country’s 2022 World Cup triumph and has remained a regular member of the national team.
Chelsea return to Premier League action on Saturday when they host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues currently occupy fifth place in the standings, having collected four victories from their opening eight league matches.
Martinez’s potential return would provide another selection option as Chelsea look to recover from consecutive domestic defeats.
For now, the goalkeeper remains focused on completing his rehabilitation, with the possibility of an earlier comeback offering encouragement ahead of a demanding fixture schedule.