Sam Kerr has been named in Chelsea’s squad for the Women’s Champions League knockout rounds, signaling that she is close to making her long-awaited return to the pitch. The star striker has been sidelined for 15 months due to a serious knee injury, but her inclusion in the squad suggests she is progressing well in her recovery.
Despite this milestone, Chelsea’s coach has cautioned against expecting an immediate impact from the 31-year-old forward. While the club is pleased with her progress, the coach emphasized the importance of managing expectations regarding her return.
Kerr is one of 25 players named in the squad for the Champions League elimination rounds, with Chelsea set to face Manchester City in the quarter-finals. The Australian international has not played since rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during training in January 2024, an injury that typically requires a year-long recovery process.
The Chelsea coach addressed concerns about Kerr’s prolonged absence, explaining that recovery timelines vary for each player. While some may return within ten months, others require 13 or more, making it difficult to predict an exact return date. The club remains focused on ensuring Kerr is in the best possible condition before she steps back onto the field.
Kerr’s absence has also been felt by the Australian national team, which has struggled during a transitional phase under interim leadership. The team has dropped to 16th in the world rankings, its lowest position in two decades. The Matildas have upcoming friendlies against South Korea in April, but with the squad announcement expected later in March, it appears unlikely that Kerr will be included for those matches.
Chelsea, meanwhile, continues its pursuit of multiple trophies this season. The club is preparing for a League Cup final against Manchester City, marking the first of four upcoming encounters between the two teams. With the Champions League campaign also in full swing, Chelsea opted to name its full 25-player squad for the remaining three rounds, including the final in May.
Kerr has recently been seen training with her teammates, providing further encouragement about her progress. While her return date remains uncertain, Chelsea’s coaching staff has stressed the importance of taking a step-by-step approach. The primary goal is for Kerr to work hard, regain her form, and gradually reintegrate into the squad.
If she successfully returns to action, Kerr’s experience and skill could provide a significant boost to Chelsea’s ambitions. However, the club is keen to ensure her recovery is handled with care, prioritizing her long-term fitness over a rushed comeback.
With Chelsea in contention for multiple trophies and the Matildas in need of leadership, Kerr’s return to the pitch will be highly anticipated. For now, the focus remains on her rehabilitation, with hopes that she will soon be back competing at the highest level.
