Matildas’ big boost as two stars set for return from concussion; promising Kerr sign
The Matildas expect Charlotte Grant to be available for their FIFA Women’s World Cup round-of-16 clash with Denmark on Monday despite the defender being the third member of the squad to suffer concussion during the tournament.
As Grant watched on from the side of the training field at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre on Friday, Matildas captain Sam Kerr spent time on an exercise bike as she continued her bid to overcome a calf injury in time for next week’s do-or-die battle at Stadium Australia.
Grant was involved in a heavy clash after coming on for her World Cup debut in the dying stages of Australia’s 4-0 win over Canada last Monday night in Melbourne.
Concussion symptoms have since emerged, however a Matildas spokeswoman said Grant would be available for selection against the Danes as she would have met the necessary concussion protocols. A team statement today said Grant has “fully recovered” and is “on track to be available” against Denmark as she goes through the return to play protocols.
Matildas defender Alanna Kennedy said: “The knock that she that she copped in the game wasn’t nice to see but I think she’s in a good spot.”
Grant is the third Matildas player to suffer from concussion during the tournament, with Mary Fowler and Aivi Luik having been concussed on the training paddock last week.
The team statement declared that Luik has completed the return to play protocols and will be available for selection against Denmark.
Matildas star Hayley Raso said the squad’s medical staff had been extremely vigilant in its dealings with Grant, Fowler and Luik.
“For any head knock that’s taken, you have to be really cautious,” Raso said.
“In the grand scheme of things, football doesn’t really matter. You need
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