World Cup winner could return to Chelsea squad for Sunderland visit - but three Blues stars ruled out

Chelsea are set to be without three key players for Sunday’s visit to Premier League rivals Sunderland - but there are high hopes former Black Cats midfielder Jordan Henderson and World Cup winner Emi Martinez could return to contention.

The Blues were dealt a major injury blow last month when England star Reece James was forced to undergo surgery on a knee injury that is likely to keep him on the sidelines until the new year. The versatile full-back had made an impressive start to life under new head coach Xabi Alonso - but he is now looking to undertake a successful recovery and rehabilitation before returning after the festive period.

Speaking after the news broke, Alonso described himself as ‘disappointed’ to have lost a player that is viewed as integral to his plans. He said: “We are all disappointed. He wanted to have a good start after the break, but in the last training session he picked up an injury. We wanted to be cautious and wait for the [test] result. Now, the surgery has been successful, we wish him a great recovery, and while we don’t set timelines, he will be out for several weeks.”

Top goalscorer Joao Pedro and former Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix are also set to miss the trip to the Stadium of Light and are not expected to return from hamstring injuries until after the upcoming international break. However, former Sunderland midfielder Henderson and Dutch defender Jorrel Hato are currently being assessed and are expected to be in contention to take a place in Alonso’s squad.

There was further good news for the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss after goalkeeper Martinez returned to training with his players on Wednesday morning. The Argentina international made six appearances for the Blues after joining from league rivals Aston Villa in the final days of the summer transfer window - but saw his attempts to make an impact at Stamford Bridge hampered by a jaw injury he suffered in a 2-0 win against Everton last month. Belgium Under-21 international Mike Penders has impressed in his absence - but Martinez’s return means Alonso has a big call to make as he prepares his side for a visit to Sunderland.

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