PERTH, Australia — Matildas captain Sam Kerr made a surprise but welcomed return to national team training in Perth on Monday, stepping onto the pitch with her teammates as her rehabilitation from an anterior cruciate ligament injury continues.
Kerr, 31, tore her ACL during a January 2024 training camp with Chelsea and subsequently underwent a second surgery, delaying her anticipated comeback. Though not selected in the 33‑player squad for the four Western Australia friendlies, she has been permitted to join individual and limited group sessions under the coordination of Matildas medical staff and her club.
Her return to the Sam Kerr Football Centre—named in her honour back in 2023—marks the first training appearance since her ACL operation. Australia’s football authorities and Kerr’s support team emphasise that her progress is “on track” and is being closely monitored before full engagement in national duties.
🚶♀️ Recovery Progress & Team Impact
- Controlled reintroduction: Kerr is restricted to light drills, running and ball work, with full group involvement pending final physical clearance from Chelsea’s medical staff.
- Coach Montemurro’s plan: New coach Joe Montemurro—tasked with preparing the squad ahead of home-hosted Asian Cup 2026—views Kerr’s gradual involvement as critical to team cohesion and leadership. news.com.au+1aapnews.aap.com.au+1
- Positive atmosphere: Fellow Matilda Ellie Carpenter described the vibe in camp as “fresh” and “competitive,” crediting Montemurro’s possession-based approach with injecting confidence. news.com.au
Kerr previously surprised fans in Perth in late June, signing autographs before the friendly against Slovenia, a moment that underscored her influential presence even off the pitch.
