Sam Kerr in Perth: Soccer superstar makes surprise return to home town ahead of Matildas’ WA fixtures
Homegrown superstar Sam Kerr has made a surprise return to Perth to link up with her national team teammates ahead of the Matildas’ four-game window in WA.
On the eve of the Matildas’ first games in charge under new coach Joe Montemurro, Kerr has returned to camp for the first time since she travelled with the national team in April.
However, the captain and talismanic striker will not be involved in a playing role during the upcoming window.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Kerr was not been named in the 33-player squad for the June-July FIFA women’s international window, which will see Australia play Slovenia and Panama across Perth and Bunbury, starting Thursday.
However, Kerr has joined the squad - following a holiday in Mallorca with partner Kristie Mewis and the couple’s baby, Jagger - and will continue her rehabilitation with the ongoing support of Football Australia’s performance support staff.
Kerr has not played since tearing her ACL in January last year, and is still progressing through a return-to-play program.
It was revealed in June she underwent a second, mystery surgery on her knee earlier this year.
During her time in Perth, Kerr will take part in a combination of individual sessions and some training activities alongside the playing group.
Kerr’s return to training has been coordinated in collaboration with her English club Chelsea.
The Matildas star took to Instagram to share her delight at being back in her hometown, posting pictures from the football centre bearing her name in Queens Park, where Australia are training this week.
Just last week, new coach Montemurro said he had been in contact with Kerr after he took over the role at the start of June.
“We’re monitoring that on a day-to-day, week-to-week scenario. She’s on track and we’re working closely with Chelsea to make sure she’s ready for the season going in from there,” he said.
“Everything’s pointing in a positive way and going in the direction we feel that’s right.”
Originally published on The West Australian
