After nearly two years away from the international stage, Australian football star Sam Kerr is back in green and gold—and she’s not hiding her ambition. The Matildas striker has set her sights on reclaiming the captain’s armband, a role she lost during her long recovery from a serious knee injury and a turbulent off-field period.
Kerr’s Comeback to the Matildas
The Chelsea forward has been named in the Matildas squad for Saturday’s friendly against Wales in Cardiff, marking her first international appearance since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The injury sidelined Kerr for 20 months, during which time Steph Catley stepped in as team captain.
Kerr’s return comes at a pivotal moment as Australia builds toward hosting the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Although she admits she’s still working her way back to peak form, the 32-year-old says her hunger to lead remains as strong as ever.
Leadership Ambitions Remain Strong
Kerr was candid about her desire to once again lead the Matildas, emphasizing that leadership goes beyond wearing the armband. “Of course I still feel really passionate about that,” she told Australian media. “I know I have so much more to give this team in a leadership role. I’ve been proud to captain this side before, and hopefully I can continue that moving forward.”
Her comments come after a difficult year that saw her face off-field scrutiny. Earlier in 2025, Kerr was cleared of racially aggravated harassment charges stemming from a 2023 incident in London, a verdict that allowed her to shift focus fully back to football.
Balancing Recovery and Future Goals
Since becoming a mother during her recovery, Kerr has approached her return with patience and perspective. The prolific striker acknowledged she’s not yet at full match fitness but is confident steady progress will get her back to her best in time for the Asian Cup.
“I’ve come back from my injury, but it’s been a year and a half without football, which has been really frustrating,” Kerr admitted. “Fitness-wise, I’m not 90 minutes ready yet—probably about 70—but every session gets me closer. The Asian Cup is my main focus, so there’s no need to rush.”
Eyes on the Asian Cup Glory
Australia will aim to lift the Women’s Asian Cup trophy for the first time since 2010, and Kerr’s leadership—on or off the pitch—could be vital to that mission. Whether she reclaims the captaincy or not, her presence and determination are set to give the Matildas a major boost heading into a new era.
