Interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni has indicated that star striker Sam Kerr is unlikely to return to the team until March at the earliest, even if she avoids imprisonment in England. Currently facing court due to charges of racially abusing a police officer, the 30-year-old was arrested earlier this year and risks a maximum sentence of 26 weeks should she be found guilty. Additionally, Kerr is recovering from surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, incurred in January 2023, and she has been absent from play since that injury.
When questioned about Kerr’s potential return, Sermanni acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the court proceedings, saying it’s challenging to speculate on the situation. His priority remains Kerr’s health and fitness, and he noted that she has been training well, recently observed running strongly. Meanwhile, he refrained from discussing Kerr’s future as captain of the Matildas, confirming that Steph Catley will lead the team during the upcoming SheBelieves Cup in the US. As Kerr’s circumstances evolve, the Matildas will adapt their plans accordingly.