Chelsea have received encouraging news ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, with goalkeeper Mike Penders back in training after concerns surrounding his fitness while on international duty with Belgium.
Penders had been monitored after experiencing an issue during the international break, but his return to training provides a timely boost for Chelsea as preparations continue at Cobham.
The young goalkeeper has been part of Chelsea’s wider goalkeeping plans and will be hoping to remain available as the club prepares for another important league fixture.
Meanwhile, Emiliano MartÃnez faces a different challenge ahead of the Bournemouth clash. The Argentina international has only recently returned from international duty and will have to manage the effects of a long journey and potential jet lag before Chelsea make their final decision on Saturday’s starting lineup.
MartÃnez’s experience could be valuable between the posts, but Chelsea’s coaching staff will assess his condition during the final stages of preparation before determining whether he is ready to start.
With fitness, recovery and international travel all factors, Chelsea will have several decisions to make before the team is confirmed for the Bournemouth encounter.
The Blues will be hoping that Penders’ return and MartÃnez’s recovery leave them with strong options in goal as they look to secure a positive result at the weekend.