Sam Kerr is set to rejoin the Matildas in April, but questions remain about her captaincy following the public release of footage from her 2023 arrest. Interim coach Tony Gustavsson remains focused on Kerr's recovery, while the Football Australia grapples with the implications for the team's reputation.
Sam Kerr is on track to return to the Matildas squad as early as April, but her fitness to retain the captaincy remains a point of contention. Interim Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson was asked about Kerr's leadership status following the release of footage showing her arrest in January 2023. The coach, however, declined to comment on the matter, stating that he hadn't considered that scenario and that it would be inappropriate to address it given the ongoing court case.
He emphasized his primary focus as coach is on getting Kerr back to full fitness as quickly as possible.Kerr has been sidelined with an ACL injury for the past year and is yet to make a return for Chelsea in the Women's Super League. By the time she does return, there should be greater clarity regarding any potential punishment she might face for her altercation with police officer Stephen Lovell in London over two years ago. Gustavsson confirmed he has been in contact with Kerr, mainly regarding her football progress, fitness, and the baby she is expecting with partner Kristie Mewis later this year. He noted that Kerr is still recovering from her injury and not ready to play yet, but recent video footage suggests she is making significant strides in her rehabilitation. Gustavsson anticipates she could be back on the field sometime in March.There is an international window scheduled between March 31 and April 8, during which Football Australia is expected to announce friendlies in Sydney and Newcastle. This presents a potential opportunity for Kerr's return to the Matildas, although the federation will need to navigate the public fallout from her actions and determine the appropriate course of action regarding the captaincy. When asked about his reaction to the video shown in court, Gustavsson stated he had only seen it that morning and found it difficult to comment without being present in that situation. He will first lead the Matildas at the SheBelieves Cup in the US later this month, with a strong 23-player squad that includes established stars like Kerr, Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, and Emily van Egmond.The search for a permanent coach following Tony Gustavsson's departure continues, with Gustavsson himself having taken on an interim role for the third time since September. It remains unclear when a replacement will be appointed, but with FA director Heather Garriock expressing interest in speaking with England coach Sarina Wiegman after the Women's Euro in July, a decision may not come until later in the year. With the Women's Asian Cup approaching in March 2026, the Matildas are facing a critical period in their journey towards potential silverware
SAM KERR MATILDAS CAPTAINCY ARREST COACH FOOTBALL AUSTRALIA ACL INJURY WOMEN's FOOTBALL
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