Kickhell

Alonso: Martinez left conscious, undergoing hospital tests

Emiliano Martinez was hospitalised for precautionary tests after being stretchered off in Chelsea's 2-0 win at Everton, manager Xabi Alonso confirmed.

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Emiliano Martinez pictured in Argentina kit; used to illustrate his precautionary hospital tests after being stretchered off against Everton.
Bryan Berlin / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was taken to hospital for precautionary tests after being stretchered off during the club's 2-0 win at Everton on Saturday.

Martinez collided with two Everton players while clearing a free-kick midway through the second half. After lengthy treatment on the pitch, he was replaced by substitute Mike Penders.

"As far as I know, he left the stadium conscious and right now he is in the hospital doing precautionary tests," Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said after the match. "So let's see, but that's what I know so far. We need to wait. Hopefully it won't be too bad, but we need to wait at the moment."

Alonso also confirmed that Malo Gusto missed the game through illness, while Pep Chavarria is set to undergo tests on Sunday to assess an injury sustained in training on Friday.

Penders kept a clean sheet after coming on, and Alonso expressed confidence in the backup goalkeeper's ability to perform when called upon.

"Mike has personality, he's brave, and we have full trust with him. He did well. He played in the cup games and whenever he's needed, like the other players whenever they are needed they can perform," Alonso said.

"It's all about the squad, that all the players feel important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that's very positive."

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