The father of Australian football sensation Sam Kerr has spoken of his family's anguish and fears as the Chelsea striker battles back from a devastating knee injury that shattered her Olympic dreams.
Roger Kerr, speaking exclusively from the family home in Perth, revealed the emotional toll the recovery process has taken on the entire family, particularly Sam's mother Roxanne, who has been a constant pillar of support during her daughter's rehabilitation.
'We're all worried,' Roger admitted with palpable emotion. 'As parents, you never want to see your child in pain or facing such a massive challenge. The mental battle is just as tough as the physical one.'
The Road to Recovery
The Chelsea and Matildas superstar suffered the catastrophic ACL injury during a warm-weather training camp in Morocco back in January, immediately ruling her out of Australia's Paris Olympics campaign and putting her entire football future in question.
Roger provided a sobering update on his daughter's progress: 'She's doing well in her recovery, but it's a long road. There's no rushing these things. The medical team are being very cautious, and rightly so.'
Family Support System
The Kerr family has rallied around their famous daughter, with mother Roxanne playing a particularly crucial role in Sam's mental and physical recovery. The family's close-knit dynamic has been essential in maintaining the footballer's spirits during the most challenging period of her career.
'Roxanne has been incredible through all of this,' Roger shared. 'She's been Sam's rock, as she always has been. We're all just trying to support her in any way we can.'
Champions League Dreams
Despite the setback, Kerr remains determined to return to peak fitness in time for Chelsea's Women's Champions League campaign. The Blues are desperate to have their star striker back leading the line as they pursue European glory.
Roger confirmed his daughter's unwavering determination: 'Sam's mindset has always been incredible. She's focused on coming back stronger than ever. The Champions League is definitely a target, but her long-term health is what matters most.'
The football world now holds its breath, waiting to see when one of the game's most electrifying talents will once again grace the pitch in Chelsea blue and Australian green and gold.
