Emi Martínez may have secured his first clean sheet as a Chelsea player, but the Argentine will have little time to celebrate amid concerns over a potentially serious injury.
The goalkeeper collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the 68th minute while attempting to claim a cross from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s free-kick.
The heavy collision brought an eight-minute stoppage as Martínez received medical attention. He was eventually stretchered off and taken straight to hospital for further assessment. An unlucky loser on a triumphant day.
Xabi Alonso gave some good news at his post match conference confirming that Martinez is conscious and going to hospital for tests.
"When he left the stadium he was conscious. Hopefully it is not too bad but we need to wait."Xabi Alonso
Concussion protocols could see the goalkeeper miss Chelsea’s clash with Tottenham, with the subsequent fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester United also potentially in doubt. A two-week absence would be the initial expectation, but further reports suggest the situation could be more serious.
Argentine journalist Gastón Edul has provided a concerning update, reporting that Martínez may require surgery on a jaw injury, with a possible fracture. Such an injury could result in a significantly longer spell on the sidelines, dealing a major blow to both the goalkeeper and Chelsea.
"Dibu Martínez is doing well and is conscious in the hospital. The results of the head tomography and the back and neck studies came back fine. He has a bone injury in the jaw and that's why he stayed in the hospital."Gaston Edul
"The important exams went well for him. The lesser evil: he has a jaw injury and they're going to operate on him."Gastol Edul
This news has yet to be confirmed by Chelsea or another reliable media outlet, so it should be treated with caution. However, given the journalist’s close ties to the Argentina national team, the report may carry some credibility.
If true, it would be a double-edged sword for Chelsea. While the confirmation that Martínez is medically safe would be reassuring, the prospect of a potentially longer spell on the sidelines would be a significant blow.
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