Injured Sam Kerr out of Matildas’ WWC opener
Sam Kerr has been ruled out of Australia’s Women’s World Cup opener against Ireland and the subsequent game against Nigeria through injury.
Kerr, the Matildas’ captain and all-time leading goalscorer, picked up a calf injury in Wednesday’s final training session.
Sam Kerr sustained a calf injury during training on Wednesday
According to Football Australia, the Chelsea striker will be assessed after the Matildas’ second group game against Nigeria in Brisbane on July 27.
“Unfortunately I sustained a calf injury yesterday in training,” Kerr said.
“I wanted to share this with everyone so there is no distraction from us doing what we came here to achieve.
“Of course I would have loved to have been out there tonight but I can’t wait to be a part of this amazing journey, which starts now.”
Kerr’s loss is a big blow for Tony Gustavsson’s 10th-ranked Matildas, who are considered one of the favourites to win their home tournament.
The 29-year-old Chelsea striker is the all time leading goalscorer for her country with 63 goals.
Mary Fowler replaces Kerr in Australia’s starting line-up against Ireland at Stadium Australia on Thursday night and is the only change to the team that beat France 1-0 in Melbourne.
AAP
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