Australian football star Sam Kerr is on the brink of making her long-awaited return to the national team, nearly two years after her last appearance for the Matildas. Head coach Joe Montemurro has strongly hinted that the Perth-born striker will be included in his squad for the October international window.
With the Women’s Asian Cup just five months away, Montemurro also shared a positive update on Mary Fowler, who is recovering from a torn ACL suffered earlier this year.
Kerr has been sidelined since November 2023 after tearing her ACL during a Chelsea training session two months later. Following an extended recovery, she made her club comeback last month—marking her return with a goal in Chelsea’s Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa, ending a 20-month absence.
When asked about her inclusion for the upcoming friendlies against Wales and England, Montemurro was cautious but optimistic.
“It’s great to see her back,” he said. “She’s regained her enthusiasm and passion for football, and we’ll make sure her return is managed properly, both physically and mentally.”
He added that Kerr is still working toward full match fitness, having yet to complete a full 90 minutes.
“We’ll assess her readiness closer to camp to ensure her integration is done the right way.”
Throughout her injury, Kerr remained involved with the Matildas, including participating in training camps earlier this year when Montemurro led the squad in Perth.
Vice-captain Steph Catley has led the team admirably in Kerr’s absence, especially during the Women’s World Cup, but Montemurro said the captaincy situation remains open.
“Integrating Sam is the priority right now,” he explained. “We’ll decide on leadership roles once we’re closer to our first match.”
Meanwhile, Manchester City midfielder Mary Fowler, who tore her ACL in April, is progressing well in her rehabilitation. The 22-year-old has returned to running and could see game time by the end of the year.
“She’s doing really well,” Montemurro confirmed. “Her recovery is on track, and everything is looking positive for her to be fit in time for the Asian Cup.”
The Matildas will kick off their Asian Cup campaign on March 1 at Optus Stadium, with hopes that both Kerr and Fowler will be fully fit and ready to lead Australia’s charge for continental glory.
