Xabi Alonso believes goalkeeper Mike Penders is ready for the challenge.

Chelsea will host Tottenham Hotspur in a London derby at Stamford Bridge in the eighth round of the 2026/27 Premier League season. Xabi Alonso has stated that he believes goalkeeper Mike Penders is ready for the challenge.

In the last round of the Premier League, Chelsea defeated Everton 2-0 thanks to two goals from Pedro Neto. However, during the match, Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez suffered a jaw injury after colliding with an opposing player. The Argentine goalkeeper will be out for a period of time after undergoing surgery.

Xabi Alonso said, "Mike Penders is ready. He has been training well and has played in several cup matches, showing a very good level. In the previous match against Everton, he came on as a substitute and showed his personality and ability in just a few minutes."

“That’s why we need a full squad. When something like this happens, everyone has to be ready. We have complete faith in Mike Penders. He’s a reliable goalkeeper now and in the future. We’re looking forward to the next game, have a lot of faith in him, and he’s ready.”

Xabi Alonso said, "Mike Penders has the support of his teammates and has been learning from the experienced Emiliano Martinez. He has had a great positive impact not only on the whole team, but also on Mike Penders."

"This relationship developed naturally. We didn't specifically tell Emiliano Martinez that he had to be a mentor or give him a mentor certificate. This relationship develops spontaneously every day because Emiliano Martinez naturally enjoys communicating with people. He not only communicates with other goalkeepers but also takes the initiative to communicate with defenders."

Furthermore, Xabi Alonso stated, "Mike Penders and Courtois have similar physical attributes, are both left-footed players, and are both very dominant in aerial duels. I spoke with Courtois about Mike Penders when he was at the World Cup. Courtois himself also said that he could see the similarities between himself and Mike Penders."

“We need to help and support him. It’s certain that he is a goalkeeper who can contribute to the team and has a bright future.”

Image source: Internet