Kerr’s Comeback Delayed After Second Surgical Procedure

SYDNEY  — New Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro revealed Tuesday that star striker Sam Kerr has undergone a second surgical “intervention” for an undisclosed injury, further delaying the Chelsea forward’s return to competition after 16 months sidelined by an ACL tear.

The 31-year-old Australian captain, who became a mother earlier this year, traveled home for the procedure, according to Channel 10 reports. The news comes after Kerr was spotted at last month’s A-League Women’s Grand Final instead of attending Chelsea’s FA Cup final at Wembley.

Injury Mystery Deepens

Montemurro, appointed Monday as Australia’s new manager, provided conflicting updates:

• Confirmed Kerr is “back running” after procedure

• Insisted original knee injury “is fine”

• Described new issue as “something completely different”

• Admitted only being briefed “in last 24 hours”

“There were some complications,” Montemurro told Channel 10. “I think there was some other issues, but again I’ve only been briefed recently.”

Captaincy Decision Pending

The coach deferred any decision on Kerr retaining the Matildas armband until her playing return. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has similarly avoided committing to timelines, leaving Kerr’s club future equally uncertain.

Fowler Boost for Asian Cup

In positive news, Montemurro confirmed Mary Fowler’s ACL recovery remains on track for next March’s Women’s Asian Cup:

“She’s in probably the best environment with the City Group… Hopefully, she’ll be right for the Asian Cup.”

The 22-year-old Manchester City forward suffered her injury during April’s FA Cup semifinal against Manchester United.