Home » Football » Premier League » Chelsea F.C.

Emi Martinez decision and one other Chelsea change Xabi Alonso will consider for Sunderland

Chelsea make the lengthy trip up to the Stadium of Light on Sunday afternoon with the Blues looking to build on last weekend's 2-0 victory over Manchester United…

By Bobby Vincent · Football London

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 7:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Chelsea manager Alonso is weighing whether to recall goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and replace Marco Palestra with Pep Chavarria.
Emiliano Martinez has returned to training earlier than expected wearing a protective mask following surgery on a fractured jaw.
Pep Chavarria is in contention to replace Marco Palestra on the left side of Chelsea's defense against Sunderland.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Chelsea manager Alonso is considering starting Emiliano Martinez in goal and replacing Marco Palestra with Pep Chavarria against Sunderland on Sunday. Martinez has returned to training early with a protective face mask after undergoing jaw surgery, potentially replacing stand-in goalkeeper Mike Penders. Bobby Vincent writes that Alonso could also alter the defense after Palestra struggled at times on the left side during the victory over Manchester United.

Jordan Henderson has resumed training following an illness, though Romeo Lavia is expected to retain his midfield spot after an impressive display. Joao Pedro, Maxence Lacroix, and Reece James will all miss the match due to injuries.

Read the full article on Football London

Emi Martinez decision and one other Chelsea change Xabi Alonso will consider for Sunderland

More Chelsea News

Never Miss a Sports Update