Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders is reportedly in line to keep his place for the upcoming clash against Liverpool, despite Teddy Sharman-Lowe being given an opportunity to start in the Carabao Cup.
Sharman-Lowe, 23, was handed a chance to impress in the cup competition, but that appearance is not expected to change the current goalkeeping plans of Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso. Reports suggest Penders remains the leading candidate to start when the Blues travel to Anfield next week.
The decision would provide another important opportunity for Penders to gain valuable first-team experience against top-level opposition. Chelsea are understood to be keen on giving the young goalkeeper more minutes as he continues his development and adapts to the demands of senior football.
Meanwhile, Emi MartÃnez is reportedly expected to remain unavailable until at least the November international break. His continued absence could mean Penders will have another chance to establish himself between the posts during a demanding period for the club.
Facing Liverpool would represent a significant test for the young goalkeeper, with the atmosphere at Anfield and the quality of the opposition likely to demand concentration, confidence and composure throughout the match.
For Chelsea, maintaining stability in goal could prove important as Alonso looks to build consistency across the team. Penders' expected selection would also underline the potential importance of the minutes he receives while MartÃnez remains unavailable.
Although the final team selection has yet to be confirmed, Penders appears well placed to continue as Chelsea's first-choice option for the Liverpool encounter, with Sharman-Lowe having to wait for another opportunity.
Chelsea fans, would you start Mike Penders against Liverpool, or give Teddy Sharman-Lowe a chance?