Sam Kerr Joins Matildas Training, Return Timeline Uncertain

Sam Kerr, the Matildas' superstar striker, has made a surprise return to training with the Australian national team ahead of friendlies against Slovenia and Panama, despite her return-to-play timeline remaining uncertain. Kerr has not played competitively since tearing her ACL while training with Chelsea 17 months ago and recently underwent a second surgery for an additional, undisclosed injury. Although she was not named in the 33-player squad for the upcoming matches, Kerr has been participating in individual and selective training sessions under the guidance of Football Australia's medical staff, with Chelsea's approval. The friendlies mark the first matches under new Matildas coach Joe Montemurro, who is focusing on a game plan emphasizing ball retention and pressure, with less than nine months to prepare the team for the Asian Cup on home soil. Key players including Kerr, Mary Fowler, and Tameka Yallop will miss the matches due to injury, while others are on personal leave, presenting challenges for Montemurro as he shapes the squad. Montemurro has stated that an official decision on Kerr's future as Australia captain will depend on her return to full fitness and competitive play.