Matildas coach Tom Sermanni has indicated that Australia captain Sam Kerr is unlikely to make a return to action this year. Despite her progress, the Chelsea striker, who has been sidelined since injuring her knee in January, was not included in the 36-player squad announced for the upcoming home friendly matches later this month. Sermanni noted that while Kerr is "coming on well," her return to the field remains uncertain. The announcement comes as the Matildas prepare for four friendly matches, and the absence of their star player is a significant blow to the team.