Matildas’ captain Sam Kerr is unlikely to play at the Paris Olympics if Australia qualifies after tearing an anterior cruciate ligament during a mid-season training camp with Chelsea.
Chelsea confirmed Kerr’s injury, saying she would be “assessed by a specialist in the upcoming days and then begin her rehabilitation with the club’s medical team”.
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Matildas’ coach Tony Gustavsson described the injury as a “devastating blow” and was a massive hit at the national side’s endeavours of making the Olympics.
The Matildas only need to win a two-leg match against Uzbekistan (ranked 47th) to qualify for Paris.
“Considering how hard Sam has worked over the past six months to return to play, this news is a devastating blow for everyone,” Gustavsson said in a statement.
“With her ability to lead by example, Sam’s guidance and influence on the team is significant and, as a result, this will be an incredible loss for the national team.
“Our focus now is on ensuring she has all the support she wants and needs to navigate recovery and rehab.”
It is extremely uncommon for athletes to return from an ACL injury, even with rehabilitations, less than nine months after the initial injury.
As well as the Olympics, it means Kerr has been ruled out of Chelsea’s second half of the Women’s Super League and European Champions League.
Kerr is yet to comment on the injury.