Alonso: Tomorrow's match is different, and this is the situation of the quartet

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso appeared at a press conference to discuss tomorrow's match against Tottenham, in the top fixture of the eighth round of the Premier League, at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso said about Emiliano Martínez's condition: "He is feeling better. He underwent surgery and is improving day by day, but we have to wait. We hope his return will take a few weeks, maybe less, but we need to wait. The positive thing is that he feels better, and we have to listen to the specialists. Considering that the injury was serious, his condition is progressing well."

Speaking about the situation of full-backs Malo Gusto and Pep Chavarria, Chelsea's manager clarified that Gusto is now ready, while Chavarria continues to increase the intensity of his training but will not be available for the next match.

The coach discussed Emanuel Emegha's situation, who has yet to make his debut for the team since joining from Strasbourg this summer, saying: "He is feeling better, but we have to wait."

Alonso has confirmed that young goalkeeper Mike Binder will replace Emiliano Martínez, stating: "He is ready, training well, and has participated in two cup matches where he showed a good level. In the few minutes he played against Everton, he demonstrated his character and potential. That’s why we have a group of players to deal with such circumstances, and we are fully convinced that Mike is capable of delivering a very good performance."

Regarding the reason for not relying on Benders as the starting goalkeeper since the beginning of the season, Alonso clarified: "We wanted to have the best possible options, which is why we signed Emiliano. Mike is a goalkeeper for the future and the present, and he is learning from an experienced goalkeeper like Emiliano. We are happy with him, and he is ready."

Chelsea's manager spoke about the similarities between Benders and compatriot Thibaut Courtois, former goalkeeper of Real Madrid and Chelsea, stating: "There are many similarities, not just because of nationality, but due to physical build, left-footedness, and aerial control. I spoke with Thibaut during the World Cup, and he even said he sees similarities between himself and Mike."

Speaking about his first experience in the Chelsea vs Tottenham derby, Alonso said: "Every derby match has its own special character, and you can feel the energy and excitement in the stands. We need to harness this energy on the pitch, as we need to communicate well. We also need to maintain emotional control, given the great passion and commitment from both sides. We want to play football with heart."

Speaking about Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham's manager: "He has very clear ideas, and we are still in the early stages of the season, with many matches ahead of us. We will see what happens tomorrow."

Chelsea have a strong record against Tottenham in the Premier League, winning the last six encounters. "I knew that, but tomorrow's match is different. We have to prove again our ability to continue this streak. It's a special match, and therefore we must play with heart, mind, and intelligence."