Sam Kerr Makes Surprise Return to Matildas Training

Matildas star Sam Kerr has unexpectedly rejoined her national team during their preparations under new coach Joe Montemurro. Kerr shared her return with fans through an Instagram post, featuring a photo of the Sam Kerr Football Centre in Perth, where the team is training, along with an image of her feet about to hit the pitch, accompanied by celebratory emojis.

Although Kerr wasn’t included in the 33-player squad for upcoming friendlies against Slovenia and Panama in late June and early July, she was seen training privately with the team. This marks her first training session with the Matildas since April, after undergoing a lengthy recovery from a serious knee injury sustained during a Chelsea camp in January last year.

The injury led to a second surgical intervention, with Kerr returning to Australia for the procedure. She recently made a surprise appearance at the A-League Women’s grand final, shortly after the birth of her son with fiancée Kristie Mewis. According to Montemurro, Kerr is now training on grass, and her recovery is progressing positively; he indicates her knee injury is much improved.

Montemurro mentioned there were some complications but expressed optimism about Kerr’s condition, stating that she is now back to running and that the injury was not as severe as initially feared. The coach has yet to decide on Kerr’s future as captain, pending her return to competitive play.

Thursday’s match against Slovenia will be Montemurro’s first in charge. The upcoming friendlies serve as crucial preparation for major tournaments, including the 2026 Asian Cup, the 2027 World Cup, and the 2028 Olympics. Players like Clare Wheeler have responded enthusiastically to Montemurro’s tactical approach, eager to demonstrate the team’s evolving style of play.

Sam Kerr’s return to training signals a hopeful step in her recovery and a boost for the national team’s upcoming campaigns.