Sam Kerr Injured: Matildas Alter Squad for Canada Friendlies

 Sam Kerr Injured: Matildas Alter Squad for Canada Friendlies

Sam Kerr of Chelsea celebrates after scoring the team's third goal during the Barclays Women´s Super League match between Chelsea FC and Leicester City at Kingsmeadow on November 26, 2023 in Kingston upon Thames, England(Image-Getty)

Matildas captain Sam Kerr will be absent from Australia's upcoming international friendlies against Canada in Langford and Vancouver due to a foot injury. Opting to remain in London for treatment with her club Chelsea, Kerr's position in the squad has been filled by the uncapped 20-year-old midfielder, Sarah Hunter, according to the team's announcement.

Kerr, who contributed a goal in Chelsea's 5-2 victory over Leicester City in the Women's Super League on Sunday, was substituted after 81 minutes due to the injury. The Australian team, having already lost goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold to an arm injury, faces these challenges as they prepare for the friendlies scheduled for Friday and Tuesday.

Notably, BC Place stadium in Vancouver is set to be renamed "Christine Sinclair Place" for the Tuesday night match, paying tribute to the retiring Canada captain's final appearance for her country.