The Australian football community is abuzz with the latest developments surrounding Sam Kerr’s captaincy of the Matildas.
Interim coach Tom Sermanni has made it clear that he’s not interested in discussing Kerr’s future as skipper, at least not yet.
What’s the Big Deal?
Kerr, 31, was recently found not guilty of racially aggravated abuse after a high-profile trial in the UK. Despite the verdict, questions remain about her role as captain of the Matildas.
Football Australia has issued a statement supporting Kerr, but hasn’t clarified whether she’ll face sanctions or if her captaincy will be affected.
Sermanni’s Take
Sermanni insists that the captaincy issue is “irrelevant” at the moment, given that he may not be in charge when Kerr returns to the team.
His focus is on getting Kerr healthy and back on the field as quickly and safely as possible. “The most important part is we get Sam healthy… and get her back on the field,” he said.
Captaincy Conundrum
With Kerr sidelined due to injury, Steph Catley has stepped in as captain and done a “fantastic job.”
Sermanni seems frustrated with the repeated questions about Kerr’s captaincy, saying it’s not part of the team’s focus right now.
“It’s not part of the conversation. When and if it does become part of the conversation, then I’ll know more about how that process works,” he said.
What’s Next for the Matildas?
The team is gearing up for the SheBelieves Cup, with an imposing opener against Japan on Friday. Sermanni is preparing the team for the tournament, but acknowledged that he may not be in charge for much longer.
Football Australia’s search for a permanent replacement for Tony Gustavsson has dragged on for over six months.
A New Era for Japan
The Matildas will face a new-look Japan team, with Nils Nielsen at the helm and former Young Matildas coach Leah Blayney as his assistant.
Sermanni doesn’t expect Japan to change their playing style significantly, but hopes they have an “off day” against the Matildas.
Overall, the Matildas are moving forward, with or without Kerr as captain. Sermanni’s focus is on the team’s performance, and he’s not getting drawn into speculation about Kerr’s future.
As the team prepares for the SheBelieves Cup, one thing is clear: the Matildas are ready to take on the best teams in the world.