EPL: Steven Gerrard Slams Everton Fans For What They Did to Chelsea Star Emi Martinez

According to a report by Football London on Tuesday October 20, 2026, Steven Gerrard has criticised Everton supporters for booing Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as he was stretchered off following a serious injury during Saturday’s Premier League match at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Martinez suffered a fractured jaw after colliding with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during a free-kick, as the home side searched for an equaliser. The Argentine remained on the pitch for approximately ten minutes before receiving medical assistance and being stretchered away.

The World Cup winner was immediately taken to Aintree Hospital, where medical examinations confirmed the fracture. Martinez subsequently underwent successful surgery, although reports suggest the Chelsea goalkeeper could remain unavailable for approximately 40 days.

Large sections of Everton’s home crowd booed Martinez as medical staff carried him off the pitch. The reaction appeared connected to his involvement in Argentina’s World Cup victory over England, which remains a sensitive subject among some English supporters.

Martinez’s provocative behaviour and celebrations have frequently divided football fans, earning admiration from his own supporters while attracting criticism from opposing crowds. However, Gerrard believes the circumstances surrounding his injury demanded greater respect from Everton’s supporters.

“These things happen; I wish him a speedy recovery. It wasn’t nice seeing him getting booed off. He’s one of those keepers that is a bit love-hate; let’s hope he recovers well,” Gerrard said on The Overlap Daily.

Meanwhile, Martinez’s expected absence could significantly disrupt Chelsea’s schedule. If the reported 40-day recovery period proves accurate, the goalkeeper could miss eight matches involving his club and Argentina’s national team.

Chelsea face Tottenham at Stamford Bridge before meeting Liverpool in the Carabao Cup and Manchester United in the Premier League. Those demanding fixtures will place additional responsibility on young goalkeeper Mike Penders.

Further potential absences include matches against Sunderland, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest. Martinez could also miss Argentina’s international fixtures against Uruguay and Costa Rica during the upcoming international break.

Chelsea will therefore depend heavily on Penders while Martinez continues recovering at Cobham. His performances could prove crucial in helping Xabi Alonso’s side maintain their form during the Argentine goalkeeper’s extended spell on the sidelines.

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