Chelsea’s Emiliano Martinez hoping to make earlier-than-planned return from broken jaw

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is hoping to make an earlier-than-planned return after suffering a broken jaw.

The Argentina international sustained the injury after a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in a 2-0 win at Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 17.

The 34-year-old, who underwent surgery to treat the issue, said at the time he would be “back in a few weeks”.

However, sources with knowledge of his rehabilitation, not authorised to speak publicly due to its private nature, indicate there is optimism he could now return sooner than that timeframe.

Mike Penders has deputised in Martinez’s absence, including for the remainder of the Everton game.

He started against Tottenham Hotspur, his first start in the Premier League, last weekend and was at fault for the visitors’ opening goal in a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.

The 21-year-old Belgian impressed against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, however, but was unable to prevent his side from exiting following a penalty shootout.

Martinez joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in a £7.5million deal in August.

He has made six appearances for his new club so far, with the game at Everton his one and only clean sheet to date.

Chelsea welcome Manchester United to west London on Saturday. They sit fifth in the Premier League table having won four of their eight games so far.