Sam Kerr Begins Training as She Edges Closer to Return After Knee Injury

Fans of the Matildas have been eager to see their captain, Sam Kerr, back on the field. At 31, she has recently resumed training for the first time since sustaining a serious ACL injury in January 2024 during a training camp with Chelsea.

Although Kerr will miss the upcoming matches against Slovenia in Perth and a fixture against Panama on July 5, she remains with the squad under new coach Joe Montemurro’s guidance. Her precise return to competitive play is still uncertain, but her recovery progress has been encouraging.

At the recent training session at the Sam Kerr Football Centre in Western Australia, Kerr was seen running for the first time since her injury, sparking hope among supporters and teammates alike. Montemurro emphasized patience during her rehabilitation, stating: “It’s a gradual process focused on building her physical capacity. We’re working closely with Chelsea to ensure she’s ready for pre-season.”

Kerr’s return to training marks a hopeful step toward her comeback to the pitch.

Montemurro highlighted the importance of patience, noting that Kerr’s recovery is an individual process but that her presence energizes the group. With less than nine months before the Asian Cup on home soil, the coach has introduced a new tactical approach centered on ball retention, breaking lines, and pressing opponents.

Several key players, including Kerr, Mary Fowler, and Tameka Yallop, will miss upcoming fixtures due to injuries and personal leave. This provides an opportunity for other players like Charli Grant to gain more game time.

The Matildas will face Slovenia on Thursday night and again on Sunday in Perth, with a match against Panama scheduled for July 5 at JE Hands Memorial Park.