Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez is set to undergo surgery for a jaw injury after his sickening collision with Jarrad Branthwaite during Chelsea's win over Everton. The Blues' goalkeeper went to hospital after being laid out on the pitch with a concussion, and has undergone a number of checks.
Martinez sustained the injury in a sickening clash of heads with Branthwaite, after the Toffees defender challenged the goalkeeper while attempting to meet a cross. Both players were left floored as the match was held up for more than 10 minutes while Martinez received treatment on the pitch.
Hospital tests and initial update
Chelsea players immediately rushed to summon help following the incident, with Martinez receiving extensive assistance from medical staff. Martinez was subsequently stretchered off the pitch, and could be seen moving as he was carried away, with his hands placed either side of his head.
Argentine journalist Gaston Edul has reported that Martinez came through the most critical assessments without serious concern at hospital, with checks carried out on his head, back and neck. However, an injury to his jaw has seen him required to remain under supervision with surgery said to be required.
Head coach's comments
Chelsea head coach Alonso confirmed that Martinez was conscious when he departed the stadium earlier in the day. "It was a concussion, but beyond that I do not know," he said.
"I have only seen one clip of the incident, so we need to wait. What we know is that he left the stadium conscious and is now in hospital undergoing precautionary tests.
"We need to wait. Hopefully it will not be too serious, but at the moment we just have to wait."
Expected absence and protocols
Martinez is expected to be sidelined for at least a fortnight as he adheres to concussion protocols. The former Aston Villa star will be absent for the fixture against Tottenham Hotspur and the Carabao Cup tie with Liverpool, while also being uncertain for the Manchester United encounter on October 31.
The Football Association (FA) has introduced stringent head injury protocols. If a player is deemed to have suffered a concussion, they must be monitored for 24 hours and commence a six-stage 'return to play' programme.
This includes a 48-hour rest period with limited physical and 'cognitive' activities, such as work and screen time. "A staged and graduated return to full daily activities" is advised where "football training is allowed, but at a rate that does not worsen existing symptoms more than mildly or produce new symptoms".
Tribute from teammate
Chelsea match-winner Pedro Neto paid tribute to Martinez following the Blues' victory. He said: "In his [Emiliano Martinez's] honour. We needed that.
"We did a very good game. Emi deserved this. Mike [Penders] deserved this as well. We are really happy."
