Chelsea’s Mike Penders backed to emulate Thibaut Courtois after Martinez injury

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has compared young goalkeeper Mike Penders with Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, saying the Belgium international also recognises similarities between the two players.

The 21-year-old Penders could be given an opportunity in the Premier League when Chelsea face Tottenham on Saturday, following Emiliano Martinez’s jaw injury and subsequent surgery to treat a fracture.

With changes expected in Chelsea’s goalkeeping position, Penders has a chance to show what he can do at the highest level.

Alonso believes the comparison with Courtois goes beyond their shared Belgian nationality. He pointed to their similar height, their preference for using their left foot and their ability to deal with aerial balls.

“There are many similarities, not just the nationality,” Alonso said. “They are both the same height, they both use their left foot and they both dominate aerial balls.”

The Chelsea manager also revealed that he had discussed Penders with Courtois while the Real Madrid goalkeeper was at the World Cup.

“I spoke to Thibaut when he was at the World Cup and asked him about Mike,” Alonso added. “He said himself that he could see similarities between them.”

Alonso stressed that Penders would need support as he prepares to take on greater responsibility in Martinez’s absence.

“We have to help him and support him,” he said. “He is a goalkeeper for the present and the future.”