The football community can hardly contain its enthusiasm! Two other heroes of Australia’s joyous run, Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler, are close to returning to the pitch as well. Both players have been plagued by devastating injuries. They are on the verge of making a remarkable recovery turnaround as they get set for the Asian Cup later this year.
Sam Kerr, 31, who recently tore her anterior cruciate ligament while training with Chelsea, is the most visible of these athletes. Ever since January 2024, she’s been too hurt to play. The injury resulted in a very long recovery trip, made worse by another injury that required surgery. With Kerr recently back in action at pre-season training with her club, fans and teammates around the world have reason to be optimistic.
Joe Montemurro, the Australian national team coach, focused on the positive of Kerr being back. He is hopeful, based on her progress, that she will be back on the field before November. Montemurro says Kerr’s leadership will be key if the team is to succeed in the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“She’s a special player and a special player not just for Australia but worldwide,” – Joe Montemurro
At the same time, 22-year-old Mary Fowler is well on her way to an earlier-than-expected return from a knee reconstruction herself. Fowler had been in stellar form for Manchester City prior to her injury, netting 10 goals across all competitions this season. Recovery is going well and Montemurro has assured she’s on track to be back in action by November.
Montemurro expressed confidence in Fowler’s rehabilitation process, noting that she has the support of Manchester City’s renowned medical team.
“I spoke to her the other day and she’s on track,” – Joe Montemurro
Fowler will most likely return to Manchester City in early October, making her rehabilitation from an ACL tear that much easier for a return to competitive play. Montemurro further emphasized the need for a slow return. He reiterated that it is crucial Fowler does not push himself back into full training too soon.
“It was important that she didn’t jump straight into pre-season. It was important that there was a build,” – Joe Montemurro
With the Asian Cup just around the corner, the respective returns of Kerr and Fowler would be a massive boost to the Matildas. Montemurro reminded of Fowler’s importance to the team, highlighting her threat to break down defenses at key moments.
“You need that player to unlock something at times and to have Mary involved will be really good,” – Joe Montemurro
