Season-ending injury

Emma Hayes, the manager of Chelsea Women's team, has expressed her disappointment for striker Sam Kerr as she undergoes surgery for a knee ligament injury. The injury occurred during the team's winter training camp in Morocco, and Kerr will miss the rest of the season.

Support and recovery

Hayes assured that the team and the club will be there to support Kerr during her rehabilitation and recovery. Despite the setback, the focus remains on the players who are fit and ready to continue the team's pursuit of the Women's Super League crown and Champions League success.

An unfortunate incident

Hayes explained that Kerr sustained the injury while practicing her shooting, a routine football action. The manager emphasized that it was a simple and innocuous incident, highlighting the unpredictability of injuries in football.

A key player's absence

Since joining Chelsea in January 2020, Kerr has played a vital role in the team's success, contributing to three WSL titles, three FA Cups, and two Conti Cup trophies. This season, she has scored four goals in eight league games and five goals in four Champions League matches.

Focus on the available squad

While Kerr's absence will be felt on the pitch, Hayes believes in the strength and depth of the squad to overcome the challenge. The manager trusts in the players who are fit and ready to step up, including new signing Nathalie Bjorn.

Chelsea's Women's FA Cup clash against West Ham presents an opportunity for Bjorn to make her debut for the club.

Hayes will leave Chelsea at the end of the season to take on the role of head coach for the US Women's national team.