Sam Kerr spotted in telling on-field moment amid ‘awful’ development for Matildas teammate

Sam Kerr’s long-awaited return from an ACL injury is drawing closer, bringing renewed hope to both Chelsea and the Matildas. The Chelsea forward has been sidelined since tearing her ACL during training in January 2024, which forced her to miss the Tokyo Olympics.

However, recent footage of Kerr celebrating with her teammates following Chelsea’s 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the Women’s Super League has sparked optimism. The win pushed Chelsea seven points clear at the top of the table, while Arsenal dropped to fourth. Kerr’s recovery appears to be progressing well, and she may make her comeback before the season ends, potentially as early as next month.

While Kerr’s positive signs have Chelsea fans excited, there is concern for her Matildas teammate, Caitlin Foord. The Arsenal star was forced to limp off the field in the same match after struggling with a muscle injury. Coach Renee Slegers confirmed that Foord had been experiencing muscle issues during the week leading up to the game, and the player herself admitted that she was unable to give 100% during the first half. Although Foord’s early substitution was seen as precautionary, her fitness remains a worry for Arsenal and the Matildas ahead of their upcoming fixtures.

Kerr’s return coincides with Chelsea’s pursuit of an unbeaten Women’s Super League season, a feat that seems increasingly possible as they continue to perform without their top scorer. Despite Kerr’s absence, Chelsea has excelled, with Guro Reiten stepping up to score crucial goals.

The club has also added to their star power with the signing of American defender Naomi Girma, who became the first million-dollar player in the WSL. With Kerr’s recovery on track, Chelsea’s ambitions of winning the WSL title and going unbeaten this season are firmly within reach.