The Matildas' inspirational captain Sam Kerr is finally expected to get on the field against Denmark in the round of 16 on Monday. “I'm really excited. I will play,” Kerr told Australia's Nine TV network.
The star striker has been sidelined since injuring her left calf on the eve of co-host Australia's first game against Ireland on July 20.
Though she recovered well enough to make the bench against Canada, coach Tony Gustavsson didn't have to ask the Chelsea forward to perform a rescue act as the Matildas routed the Olympic champion 4-0 to top Group B.
While it is still not clear if she will be in the starting 11 against Denmark, both Kerr and coach Tony Gustavsson have hinted that she might make her entrance at the World Cup at Stadium Australia.
Kerr is one of the biggest sports stars in Australia and has been the face of the country's preparations for the World Cup, which it is co-hosting with New Zealand. The 29-year-old Kerr was one of the favorites to be the leading scorer in this tournament, but there were initial doubts she would be able to play any part for Australia after sustaining a calf injury in training.
ADVERTISEMENT