Matildas captain Sam Kerr keeping low profile as Australia ramps up preparations for Slovenia clash
Sam Kerr is keeping a low profile amid her surprise return to the Matildas camp in Perth, with the captain continuing her return from injury out of the limelight on Tuesday.
The Australia skipper stunned fans by revealing her return to her hometown on Instagram, with Football Australia confirming the Chelsea superstar had linked up with the Matildas squad.
While Kerr will not take part in any of Australia’s four games against Slovenia and Panama across Perth and Bunbury over the next two weeks, she has been given the green light to progress through her return to play protocols alongside the national team teammates.
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However, she was not in attendance at Matildas’ training at Sam Kerr Football Centre on Tuesday afternoon during the 15 minutes open to media.
Instead, the Perth product posted an Instagram story on Tuesday mornin,g signifying her arrival at the football centre bearing her name in Queens Park.
24 members of the squad were on track as they continued their preparation for the opening game of new coach Joe Montemurro’s tenure against Slovenia at HBF Park on Thursday night.
Kerr has not played since tearing her ACL in January 2024, with her return to play timeline having blown out significantly compared to the typical recovery from the injury.
Following a holiday in Mallorca with partner Kristie Mewis and the couple’s baby, Jagger, Kerr will continue her rehabilitation with the ongoing support of Football Australia’s performance support staff.
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.
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
