Sam Kerr Retains Full Support of Australia Squad Amid Captaincy Controversy

Australia women's football team vice-captain Emily van Egmond expresses her support for Sam Kerr to remain captain amid controversy surrounding an off-field incident.

Australia's women's football team vice-captain, Emily van Egmond, has expressed her unwavering support for skipper Sam Kerr, stating that she should “definitely” retain her captaincy. This comes after Kerr was found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment, but was criticized by the judge for her behavior.

Van Egmond emphasized that Kerr has the full backing of her teammates, despite calls for her to be stripped of the captaincy. “She definitely should not be stepping down,” van Egmond told reporters. The vice-captain also acknowledged that both Football Australia and Kerr have addressed the issue, and the team is united in their support for their captain.

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Van Egmond reiterated the team's solidarity with Kerr, saying, “I think the federation have come out and said what they need to say. And obviously Sammy's had her side to say as well. And as teammates and a team, we're in full support of her.” This statement underscores the team's commitment to standing by their captain during this challenging time.

Sam Kerr has been working her way back to full fitness after a lengthy absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The 31-year-old forward has joined the current Matildas training camp as part of her rehabilitation process. Kerr had also been dealing with the aftermath of an off-field incident in January 2023, for which she has expressed regret.

It's been a long time coming for @samkerr1 and Matildas fans 🥹

Sam Kerr returns to camp with @TheMatildas for the first time since December 2023 🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/lwzqfeBvzA

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According to vice-captain Emily van Egmond, Kerr is in “high spirits” as she reintegrates with the team. Van Egmond, a long-time friend of Kerr's, expressed her support and happiness for the star forward. “Football federation put out their statement the other day (Monday), and I think that speaks for itself,” Van Egmond said, referencing Football Australia's decision to take no further action against Kerr.

Van Egmond welcomed Kerr's presence at the training camp, emphasizing the positive impact it has on both Kerr and the team. “And as her teammate and a friend, I'm nothing but happy for her. I'm just really happy that she's here around us. Like I said, it's great for not only her, but for the team,” Van Egmond said. Australia is set to host South Korea in two friendlies on Friday and Monday, but Kerr will not be involved as she continues to work towards regaining full fitness.