Sam Kerr ACL injury: Chelsea, Matildas star could miss Olympics after suffering knee damage in training camp

Chelsea announced on January 7 that striker Sam Kerr had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Australia star was hurt during a warm-weather training camp with her club side in Morocco.

"Sam will be assessed by a specialist in the coming days and then begin her rehabilitation with the club's medical team," the Women's Super League champions said in a statement.

"Everyone at Chelsea would like to wish Sam the very best for her recovery."

Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said: "Considering how hard Sam has worked over the past six months to return to play, this news is a devastating blow for everyone.

"With her ability to lead by example, Sam's guidance and influence on the team is significant and, as a result, this will be an incredible loss for the national team.

"Our focus now is on ensuring she has all the support she wants and needs to navigate recovery and rehab."

When Sam Kerr scored four times in a game to make Women's Champions League history

Chelsea confirmed on January 7 that Kerr had sustained ACL damage during a warm-weather training camp in Morocco. It was not initially clear how the injury had occurred.

Emma Hayes' side have not played since December 20, when Kerr scored the opening goal in a 3-1 win away to Hacken in the UEFA Women's Champions League.

Chelsea's next match is on January 14, when they host West Ham in the Fourth Round of the FA Women's Cup.

It is not yet clear how long Kerr will be sidelined. Chelsea stressed that the 30-year-old would need assessment from specialists before her rehabilitation work could begin.

Generally, the recovery period for a serious ACL injury, such as a partial or complete tear of the ligament, between six and nine months. That would mean Kerr is likely to be