No word on captaincy as Sam Kerr’s return to Matildas confirmed

Superstar Sam Kerr will play her first game for the Matildas in almost two years after being selected in Joe Montemurro’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Wales and England.

Kerr hasn’t played for Australia since November 2023, having endured a horror rehabilitation from an ACL tear suffered in a Chelsea training camp in January 2024.

The superstar striker returned for the Blues last month, scoring her 100th goal for the club in her first game back, and Montemurro believes she has rediscovered her “passion” for football.

But there is still no decision on whether she will retain the captaincy when she takes to the field.

Montemurro has yet to speak to Kerr about whether she will retain the captaincy, with Steph Catley donning the armband during her absence with aplomb.

“Integrating her is probably the first and foremost thing,” Montemurro said of Kerr earlier this week.

“And to be honest, I haven’t had a discussion about it. I haven’t spoken to anyone about it.

“The focus has been getting the squad to a point where we want to and everyone’s on board with that.

“But the captaincy will be assessed once we get closer to the first game.”

In announcing the squad, Montemurro was excited for the tough challenge against Wales and England.

Cortnee Vine and Katrina Gorry are also back in the squad, but striker Mary Fowler (ACL) and midfielder Tameka Yallop (hamstring) remain unavailable for selection.

Vine, the penalty shootout hero for Australia at the World Cup, is in the national squad for the first time since the Paris Olympics.

A mental health break, injuries and a difficult start to life in the NWSL with North Carolina Courage had kept her out of the Matildas.

Gorry is due to play for the first time under Montemurro, after missing his first window through personal leave.

“We are excited to bring this group together for two important fixtures in the October window where we have the opportunity to challenge ourselves, strengthen our cohesion, and continue shape the way we play,” Montemurro said in a statement.

“The squad showcases the depth we are looking to build, by utilising experienced players who continue to set high standards alongside the next generation of Matildas players.

“It will be Australia’s first time competing against Wales and there is a competitive history with England, so both games will provide different challenges to test the team, our playing style and the way be play together.

“Having Sam back in the squad is a special moment - not just for the team, but for Australian football. Her leadership and presence are invaluable as we continue building toward the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 and beyond.

“The team and my expectations in October are that we will continue to work hard, be humble and grow as a collective unit.”

The Matildas will play Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on October 25 before facing England three days later.

- With AAP