Chelsea fans were devastated to learn that prolific striker Sam Kerr would miss the remainder of this season after sustaining the dreaded ACL injury during a recent warm-weather training camp ahead of the WSL’s post-winter break restart.
Having signed for Chelsea in January 2020, Kerr has been stalwart in leading Chelsea’s challenge for four consecutive WSL titles – winning one every year she has been with the club. However, her untimely injury means she will now never play under manager Emma Hayes at Chelsea again, with the formidable boss departing at the end of the season to lead the United States.
Registering 99 goals in 128 matches before her injury, Kerr was chosen for the 2023 FIFA World XI and has been named in the top three of the Ballon d’Or for the past three years.
Having excelled in the WSL and secured the Golden Boot twice to date, the Australian – who has at least agreed a contract extension – leaves a considerable gap for Hayes to address. But, given the depth of talent in Chelsea’s squad, the Blues can find a suitable replacement from within.
Lauren James had her breakout season with Chelsea last campaign, nailing down her spot as an attacking midfielder in Fran Kirby’s absence. Spending more time on the left wing this season, the 22-year-old’s versatility has become a key asset to Hayes, with her hunger to score goals leading Chelsea’s attack. With seven goals in nine games, she ranks second in the Golden Boot race.
Following Kerr’s injury, there was a brief period before Chelsea’s first match of 2024, an FA Cup London derby against West Ham. During this time, James, exemplifying her versatility, stepped in as the striker. While it wasn’t her most assured or comfortable performance in a Blues shirt, manager Emma Hayes may use the burgeoning talent as a ‘number nine’ to devise a new strategy.
Named in the FIFA Best XI alongside Kerr, James appears to be a promising candidate to fill the void left by the Australian and could spend the remainder of the campaign as a centre forward. However, her longevity as a striker rides on Kirby remaining injury-free as any set backs to the 30-year-old could shift James back into midfield, making it a less sustainable option.
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