Chelsea receive Emi Martinez injury update and it's reminiscent of Petr Cech
Chelsea fans have seen this story before. A serious head injury, a recovery and the prospect of a goalkeeper returning to action wearing protective headgear could soon bring back memories of one of the club's greatest ever players.
Emi Martinez is currently recovering from a fractured jaw suffered during Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Everton, but there is now fresh optimism surrounding his potential return to action.
The Argentina international has already undergone surgery, and the latest update suggests he could be back sooner than initially expected.
However, there is one particularly familiar detail that could make his comeback even more interesting.
Emi Martinez could follow in Petr Cech's footsteps
According to a report from BBC Sport, there is hope that Martinez could make an earlier return after consulting a specialist about wearing a protective mask.
The 34-year-old suffered the injury following a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 17. Martinez was attempting to deal with a cross when the pair collided, leaving the Chelsea goalkeeper requiring lengthy treatment before being stretchered off and taken to hospital.
Subsequent examinations confirmed a fractured jaw, which required surgery. Martinez later reassured supporters that the operation had gone well and said he hoped to return within a few weeks.
Xabi Alonso has also offered encouraging news, explaining that the goalkeeper is feeling better day by day, although the club will follow the advice of medical specialists before deciding when he can resume playing.
The possibility of Martinez returning with additional protection immediately draws comparisons with Petr Cech, whose career at Stamford Bridge became synonymous with his protective headguard.
Chelsea fans will remember Cech's remarkable recovery
Cech suffered a serious head injury while playing for Chelsea against Reading in October 2006. Following surgery for a fractured skull, the Czech goalkeeper returned to action wearing a rugby-style protective helmet, which became an iconic part of his appearance for the remainder of his career.
The former Blues number one went on to enjoy huge success, winning four Premier League titles, the Champions League and numerous other trophies during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Martinez's situation is different, with his current injury involving a fractured jaw rather than the skull injury suffered by Cech. Nevertheless, the potential use of protective equipment would provide a striking parallel between two goalkeepers whose Chelsea careers have been shaped by serious injuries.
There is no confirmed date for Martinez's return, and any protective mask would need to be assessed and approved by the relevant medical specialists.
In the meantime, Mike Penders has an opportunity to establish himself in the first team. The young goalkeeper has already stepped in following Martinez's injury, and his performances could prove important while Chelsea await their first-choice stopper's recovery.
