Sam Kerr is making significant progress in her recovery from a long-term knee injury, as she joins Chelsea’s mid-season training camp in Portugal. The Matildas’ captain has been sidelined for almost a year after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during Chelsea’s warm-weather training break in Morocco last January.
Kerr’s injury has kept her out of action for the past 12 months, and while she’s expected to be back in action by February or March, her participation in the Portugal camp suggests that her return might come sooner than anticipated. However, Chelsea has confirmed that Kerr, along with United States striker Mia Fishel who is also recovering from an ACL injury will not be training with the full squad during the camp. Instead, both players will focus on their individual rehabilitation.
Despite the promising signs, Kerr has made it clear that she will not rush her recovery and will only return when she feels fully fit. The 31-year-old striker also mentioned in a podcast last September that her injury was more complex than just an ACL tear, indicating a longer recovery process. While Kerr’s return to action remains uncertain, her involvement in the training camp marks an important step forward in her recovery.
Matildas’ interim coach Tom Sermanni has expressed optimism about Kerr’s progress, noting that her rehabilitation is ongoing. He acknowledged that while Kerr is making improvements, the injury is still expected to require a full 12 months for recovery. As a result, Kerr is unlikely to be ready for Australia’s upcoming She Believes Cup campaign in February. Sermanni emphasized that Kerr is taking the necessary time to ensure her full fitness before making her return to the pitch.
Chelsea, who have been performing exceptionally well in Kerr’s absence, have continued their dominance in the Women’s Super League (WSL). The team has won 15 of their 16 matches this season, maintaining a six-point lead at the top of the league. In addition, Chelsea has advanced to the quarter-finals of the Women’s Champions League, with a perfect record so far. Despite their impressive form, the return of Kerr would provide a significant boost to the squad as they aim to continue their success.
Kerr’s involvement in the training camp is also a positive sign for Chelsea’s morale. In photos shared on the club’s official social media, Kerr is seen posing alongside her teammates, including Millie Bright, Erin Cuthbert, and Guro Reiten, who form part of the club’s “Fantastic Four.” This visual representation of Kerr’s return to the fold offers hope for both Chelsea and the Matildas as they look forward to her eventual comeback.
After the training camp in Portugal, Chelsea will return to competitive action on January 12, when they face Charlton in the fourth round of the Women’s FA Cup. While Kerr’s return to the pitch may still be some time away, her involvement in the team’s activities is a crucial step in her recovery, and fans are eagerly anticipating her eventual return to the field.
