The Matildas’ Olympic qualifying campaign has suffered a massive blow with Sam Kerr ruled out for the rest of the English Women’s Super League season.
Kerr suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during Chelsea’s mid-season camp in Morocco, the club and Football Australia confirmed on Sunday (Monday AEDT).
Kerr therefore won’t be available for the Matildas’ AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament round three series against Uzbekistan in February.
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Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson put his support behind Kerr after she missed friendlies against Canada with a foot injury. Kerr also played a limited role in the group stages of the FIFA Women’s World Cup due to a calf problem.
“Considering how hard Sam has worked over the past six months to return to play, this news is a devastating blow for everyone,” Gustavsson said in a statement.
“With her ability to lead by example, Sam’s guidance and influence on the team is significant and, as a result, this will be an incredible loss for the national team.
“Our focus now is on ensuring she has all the support she wants and needs to navigate recovery and rehab.”
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Once she returns to London, Kerr’s rehabilitation will be overseen by Chelsea’s medical staff.
Football Australia and Chelsea have provided no further timeframe on when she will be fit to play again.
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