Chelsea host Tottenham on Saturday, and manager Xabi Alonso said young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders resembles compatriot Thibaut Courtois. With Dibu Martinez having gone under the knife to treat a fractured jaw, Penders, 21, has a fresh chance to show what he can do in the Premier League.
Alonso points to shared traits
Alonso said: "There are many similarities, not just the nationality. They both have the same height, they both use the left foot, and they both dominate aerial balls."
Courtois conversation
Alonso said: "I spoke to Thibaut when he was at the World Cup and asked him about Mike, and he himself said that he sees a similarity between them."
Backing for Penders
Alonso backed Penders to fulfil his potential. Alonso said: "We have to help him and support him. He is a goalkeeper for the present and the future."