China crisis helps Matildas Qualifiers delay gives Kerr more recovery time

With government measures to tackle the coronavirus altering almost daily, the Matildas will now kick off their games in the qualifying tournament on Friday, facing Chinese Taipei at Campbelltown Stadium.

The following Monday, Milicic’s side will host Thailand at the same venue, before moving to Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta to play the last – and potentially decisive – game of the group against China.

Currently scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, the game could be put back 24 hours to the Thursday to allow both sides another day of recovery, but only if European clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich agree to their Australians staying in Sydney for an extra day.

A resolution on that is expected within the next 48 hours, as FFA officials grapple with the sporting logistics of such a unique global crisis.

Changes to government policy on Saturday mean the Chinese women’s team, currently held in isolation in Brisbane, cannot now leave their hotel to train until the isolation period ends tomorrow.

The team is expected to fly to Sydney the following day, forcing FFA to move a doubleheader of games from Thursday to Friday.

The constant changes have proved hugely challenging for Milicic’s staff, planning training loads and trying to keep the players’ mentally stimulated.

But the extra time has aided Kerr’s recovery from a muscle injury that has already forced her to miss a game for her club Chelsea in the English Super League.

“Sam’s not at full training but she’s making good progress every day,” Milicic said.

“She’s delighted to be back here in the sun and our medical staff know her body better than anyone.

“We’re pleased with her progress but at the same time there’s player welfare involved and we won’t risk not only Sam but any other player.”