Sam Kerr's ACL Injury Progress Revealed Ahead of Matildas' Friendlies Against Brazil and Taiwan
Interim coach Tom Sermanni provided an update on Sam Kerr, who is sidelined due to an ACL tear and will not play in upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Taiwan. Although Kerr's rehabilitation is improving, the injury may take about 12 months to fully recover. The squad for the matches includes several uncapped players and seeks to balance experienced and emerging talents. Key players Cortnee Vine and Kaitlyn Torpey are unavailable, while others return from injuries.
Interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni has provided an update regarding star player Sam Kerr's recovery as he announces a larger squad for upcoming friendly matches. The squad, consisting of 36 players, includes both inexperienced players and those with limited caps as they prepare for matches against Brazil and Taiwan.
Sam Kerr's Recovery Continues
Sam Kerr will not participate in the upcoming friendlies as she is recovering from an ACL injury. Coach Tom Sermanni noted that her rehabilitation is progressing well, though she has not been in contact for a couple of weeks. He acknowledged that, while improvements are evident, the injury may require up to 12 months to fully heal.
Clarity on Kerr's Condition
Last month, Kerr hinted on a BBC podcast that her injury might involve more than just the ACL ligament. However, Sermanni expressed his unawareness of any additional complications. He stated firmly that he had not heard of any other issues pertaining to her health.
Squad Composition and Notable Absences
The newly announced squad includes seven uncapped players alongside eight players with fewer than 10 caps. Some notable absences include Cortnee Vine due to personal reasons and Kaitlyn Torpey because of a hamstring injury. The upcoming matches will celebrate veteran player Clare Polkinghorne's retirement and mark Emily van Egmond's milestone of 150 caps.
Team Strategy for Upcoming Matches
Sermanni expressed his intentions to utilize a balanced team strategy, mixing seasoned players with emerging talent. As the games approach, he plans to rotate players between the matches against Brazil and Taiwan, prioritizing both competitive performance and player development.
Inaugural Call-Ups for Young Players
Including several fresh faces, players Isabel Gomez, Leah Davidson, Natasha Prior, and Hana Lowry have received their first national team call-ups. Additionally, notable players like Mackenzie Hawkesby and Laura Hughes were not selected, while Kayla Morrison awaits the completion of her eligibility switch process with FIFA.
Sermanni's Ongoing Role as Coach
Sermanni reaffirmed his readiness to continue as interim head coach for as long as necessary while Football Australia searches for a permanent replacement. His commitment to the team's development and success remains a top priority as they prepare for these international fixtures.
The following players have been included in the Matildas squad: Goalkeepers Morgan Aquino, Mackenzie Arnold, Chloe Lincoln, and Teagan Micah; Defenders such as Ellie Carpenter and Steph Catley; Midfielders including Alex Chidiac and Emily van Egmond; and Forwards including Caitlin Foord and Mary Fowler.
