How the most turbulent year of Sam Kerr's life left her badly injured

Matildas captain Sam Kerr's sporting career has hit a crossroads after an incredibly turbulent year that has seen her life take a staggering series of twists and turns.

The Chelsea striker has pleaded not guilty to a charge of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer, according to the UK's Crown Prosecution Service.

Kerr was charged with causing a police officer harassment, alarm or distress arising from an alleged incident in Twickenham, south-west London, on January 30, 2023.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the incident involved an officer who was responding to a complaint about a taxi fare.

Kerr denied the charge at a plea and trial preparation hearing at Kingston Upon Thames Crown Court on Monday.

She is due to face trial next February, leaving the Matildas ace in limbo with her future with Women's Super League powerhouse Chelsea in doubt.

Kerr is off contract with The Blues at the end of this season and although she has reportedly reached an in principle agreement with the club to extend her stay at Kingsmeadow, it has not been confirmed that she has officially re-signed.

It remains unknown what impact these allegations will have on those contract talks. Neither Chelsea nor the Women's Super League had released a statement on Kerr at the time of publication.

However, when Kerr's teammate Lauren James suffered racial abuse in December last year, the team made its stance on the issue plain by stating: 'The club stands strongly against any form of abuse and discriminatory behaviour. Discrimination has no place at Chelsea Football Club or in any of our communities. We will take action against any individual that we can identify. We stand with you, Lauren.'

Colombian forward Mayra Ramirez has replaced Kerr in