Photo via BBC Sport

Chelsea's Martinez taken to hospital for 'precautionary tests'

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was rushed to hospital after sustaining a concussion during Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. The injury occurred in the 68th minute when Martinez collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite while contesting a cross, forcing him off the field with an eight-minute delay.

Manager Xabi Alonso confirmed Martinez had suffered a concussion but declined to speculate further, noting that precautionary tests were underway. The Argentina international’s absence raises doubts over his availability for Chelsea’s next three fixtures, including trips to Tottenham and Manchester United, with a Carabao Cup clash at Liverpool sandwiched in between.

Despite the setback, Chelsea secured their first Premier League clean sheet in nine months, ending a run of 23 consecutive games without one. The win also marked a significant turnaround for a side that had conceded a league-high 13 goals prior to the match.

Pedro Neto scored both goals, while midfielders Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson provided stability in a reshuffled lineup. Chelsea’s defensive solidity was evident, with Everton managing just six shots and creating their fewest chances in a Premier League game since December.

The victory also broke a recent run of poor away form, as Chelsea had lost 19 of their last 41 matches north of Luton over the past four years.

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