Xabi Alonso delivers encouraging update on Emiliano Martínez

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has provided an encouraging update on goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who was rushed to hospital following a heavy collision during their 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton. The Argentina international lost consciousness after colliding with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and required lengthy on-pitch medical attention before being stretchered off in a neck brace.

"As far as I know, he left the stadium conscious. He is currently in hospital undergoing tests just in case. We have to wait; hopefully it’s nothing serious, but for now we just have to wait," Alonso said after the match. The injury cast a shadow over Chelsea's win, which secured their first Premier League clean sheet since January.

Martínez collided with Branthwaite in the second half as both challenged for the ball following a free-kick. After extensive treatment on the pitch, the goalkeeper was replaced by Mike Penders, who made his Premier League debut. Chelsea sealed the points courtesy of a Pedro Neto brace, with the winger striking seconds into the second half and adding a second in the closing stages.