Sam Kerr will be fit to join the Matildas for their upcoming international matches against New Zealand despite her omission from Chelsea’s recent squads. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed that Kerr was left out as part of a planned rehabilitation strategy following her long-term anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Kerr missed Chelsea’s Women’s Champions League match against Barcelona and the Women’s Super League fixture against Liverpool. Bompastor noted that Kerr is “fine” but needs careful management to continue her comeback. Kerr played a full 90 minutes and scored twice in Chelsea’s Champions League win over St Polten, marking a significant milestone in her recovery.
Chelsea’s medical staff deemed it too soon for Kerr to participate in the high-intensity clash against Barcelona. The decision aims to balance Kerr’s fitness while preventing setbacks. Bompastor explained, “It’s just a case of managing her comeback,” emphasizing the importance of rest after her recent full match.
Matildas coach Joe Montemurro expressed optimism about Kerr’s condition. He said, “She got 90 minutes during the week in the Champions League last week, obviously scoring goals, and that’s where we want Sam to be.” Montemurro also highlighted ongoing communication with Chelsea regarding Kerr’s minutes on the field.
Sam Kerr is expected to travel to Australia soon to join the Matildas ahead of their internationals. The Matildas face New Zealand in Gosford on November 28 and in Adelaide on December 2. Bompastor confirmed Kerr will “probably be going with the national team next week” despite missing Chelsea matches.
This careful management approach underscores the priority to protect Kerr’s fitness for international duty. The Matildas will benefit from having their captain available after a challenging rehabilitation period. Kerr’s return to competitive football remains on track, according to trusted sources from Chelsea and the Australian national team.
Key points about Sam Kerr’s status:
1. Omitted from Chelsea matches against Liverpool and Barcelona as part of rehab plan.
2. Played 90 minutes and scored twice against St Polten in the Champions League.
3. Expected to join Matildas for November internationals against New Zealand.
4. Close coordination between Chelsea and Matildas staff to manage her minutes.
5. Coaches emphasize cautious management to ensure full recovery.
Sam Kerr’s involvement in the Matildas’ fixtures will be closely monitored as she continues her gradual return to peak physical condition. Chelsea and Australia’s coaching teams remain aligned on supporting her long-term status as a top player.
Read more at: www.abc.net.au
