Sam Kerr’s availability for the Matildas confirmed in short statement ahead of Australian friendlies.

The Matildas will return to action next month in Australia, but star striker Sam Kerr will not be part of the squad as she continues her recovery from a long-term knee injury. Kerr, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture during a Chelsea training session last year, has yet to be cleared for competitive play by her club. Australian football fans will need to wait longer to see their superstar back on home soil.

Kerr was recently named in Chelsea’s Champions League squad but did not feature in the match. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed that Kerr will also miss the upcoming second leg and the club’s league fixtures before the international break. While no specific timeline has been set for her return, Bompastor emphasized the importance of easing her back into competition rather than expecting an immediate impact after 15 months on the sidelines.

Off the pitch, Kerr recently made headlines after being found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment in the UK. In a statement following the verdict, she expressed relief at putting the matter behind her and gratitude to her supporters. Meanwhile, she and her fiancée, Kristie Mewis, are preparing for a significant life milestone as they anticipate the arrival of their first child later this year.