Matildas confirm return of Sam Kerr to squad for England and Wales friendlies

Sam Kerr is back in the Matildas squad for the first time since late 2023, ahead of friendlies against Wales and England.

Cortnee Vine and Katrina Gorry also feature in a 24-player squad announced on Friday.

Kerr last played for Australia in November 2023, then endured a horror rehabilitation from an ACL tear suffered at a Chelsea training camp in January 2024.

The superstar striker returned for the Blues last month, scoring her 100th goal for the club in her first game back.

"Having Sam back in the squad is a special moment — not just for the team, but for Australian football," Matildas coach Joe Montemurro said in a statement.

"Her leadership and presence are invaluable as we continue building toward the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 and beyond."

Vine, the penalty shootout hero for Australia at the World Cup, is in the national squad for the first time since the Paris Olympics.

A mental health break, injuries and a difficult start to life in the NWSL with North Carolina Courage had kept her out of the Matildas.

Gorry is due to play for the first time under Montemurro, after missing his first window through personal leave.

"The squad showcases the depth we are looking to build, by utilising experienced players who continue to set high standards alongside the next generation of Matildas players," Montemurro said.

"It will be Australia's first time competing against Wales and there is a competitive history with England, so both games will provide different challenges to test the team, our playing style and the way we play together."

Australia will play Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on October 25 (local time) and England at Derby's Pride Park three days later.

Kerr, 32, has been on limited minutes at Chelsea and is likely to be gradually introduced in those games.

She previously joined Matildas camps in a non-playing capacity as part of her rehabilitation.

It is unclear whether Kerr will retain the captaincy, with Steph Catley donning the armband during her absence with aplomb.

Forward Mary Fowler (ACL) and midfielder Tameka Yallop (hamstring) remain unavailable.

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