Sam Kerr Returns to Matildas in Wales, England

Sam Kerr will make her Matildas return against Wales in Cardiff before facing England in Derby, having last played in November 2023 after a 20-month rehabilitation from an ACL tear; she scored her 100th Chelsea goal on her club return but has mainly been used as a substitute while rebuilding fitness. Teammates, including goalkeeper Teagan Micah, say they will not put pressure on Kerr and view her presence as a confidence boost while wanting her to enjoy the game so the goals will come. Micah — who has recovered from concussion and recently changed clubs — says she has re-established herself as first-choice goalkeeper and is determined to keep that spot ahead of the Asian Cup. Coach Joe Montemurro said he is confident Kerr will score and contribute but warned against relying solely on one striker, stressing the need for goals from midfielders, set pieces and defenders. The Wales and England friendlies will be used as crucial tests ahead of the Asian Cup in March, and Montemurro said he will finalise matters such as the captaincy and how to deploy Kerr alongside players like Caitlin Foord and Holly McNamara.