Emma Hayes is confident that Chelsea’s FC squad can handle the absence of Sam Kerr

• Sam Kerr sustained an ACL injury over the winter break, and Millie Bright is also unavailable.

• Global Sports reports that Kerr has extended her contract with the club.

• Manager Emma Hayes assures us that summer signing Catarina Macario will be ready soon.

Last week, Chelsea FC fans were disheartened by the news of star striker Sam Kerr’s ACL injury during the club’s training camp in Morocco.

Arriving at Chelsea in 2020, Australian striker Sam Kerr faced a setback, sustaining an injury after an impressive 99 goals for the club. Chelsea Fc manager Emma Hayes, who will leave at the season’s end, confirmed Kerr’s nine-month rehabilitation and expressed support.

“Gutted for her and the team. Recovery starts today,” Hayes stated. Kerr, rumored for a move, is now reported to have extended until 2025. Hayes remains focused on rehab, emphasizing Kerr’s love for Chelsea.

Acknowledging the void Kerr leaves, Hayes highlights the team’s collective strength and capabilities, shifting attention to Chelsea’s remaining squad members.

“We possess a high-quality squad, and as a coach, it’s a positive challenge for me to discover those solutions. I have full confidence in the squad we’ve assembled, with recent additions enhancing our strength. The focus should be on the players available,” explained Hayes.

While Kerr’s absence is notable, Hayes remains optimistic about the remaining players’ depth and adaptability, highlighting the chance for others to step up and contribute to the team’s ongoing success.

“We believe in the goal-scoring abilities of our players. Our offensive output has reached new heights during my tenure. The key is to explore different approaches to finishing,” she added.

Despite Chelsea’s summer addition of Mia Fishel to the WSL, the USWNT forward has faced challenges adapting to London life. Hindered by a lingering groin injury, her playing time has been limited, and she has only managed to score once in eight matches.

During the summer, Chelsea also welcomed American compatriot Catarina Macario. Her initial months at the club were dedicated to rehabilitating from an ACL injury. While the extended recovery period has been crucial for Macario’s situation, the absence of Kerr may now raise expectations for the 24-year-old’s upcoming readiness.

“Participating in the sessions in Morocco, although in a gradual manner rather than full-team training, Cat has been involved in certain aspects of the training,” explained Hayes, the former Lyon star. “In the upcoming weeks, we’ll focus on her gradual reintroduction, and Chelsea fans can anticipate her return soon.

“For those who haven’t witnessed Cat in action, trust me, she’s an outstanding player.”

Additionally, Chelsea boasts emerging talents like Lauren James, with seven goals in the 2023/24 season, and Aggie Beever-Jones, who notched five goals after returning from a loan at Everton last season. Both are ready to contribute to the Blues’ scoring prowess in Kerr’s absence.

Chelsea remains without vital center-back Millie Bright, who faced a significant portion of last season sidelined with a knee injury. Despite making a comeback during England’s World Cup campaign that concluded with a loss to Spain in the final, Bright’s knee issues resurfaced, keeping her out of the final matches of 2023.

Regarding Bright’s injury, Hayes remarked, “She’s currently in rehab, putting in the hard work. I can’t specify a return timeline, as I’ve mentioned before, but she’s maintaining a positive attitude and will return at the earliest possible moment. Although she’d eagerly lace up her boots if asked, we prioritize ensuring Millie’s sustained well-being.”

To prevent hastening Bright’s return, Chelsea opted to secure the services of Swedish defender Nathalie Bjorn from Everton. This strategic signing not only offers an alternative and capable defensive option but also addresses the void left by Aniek Nouwen’s absence due to an ACL injury.