Sam Kerr’s argument with an English police officer should never have gone to trial, according to former Matildas player Kate Gill, who has backed the 31-year-old to remain as Australian captain.
Some are calling for Kerr to be stripped of the armband, but the matter’s conclusion has prompted support from within the football community. Nike confirmed on Wednesday their long-standing relationship with the striker remains intact.
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Kerr issued an apology at the conclusion of the six-day trial, after the jury at Kingston crown court in London returned a not guilty verdict following approximately four hours of deliberations.
On a night out with partner Kristie Mewis in 2023, Kerr called a police officer “fucking stupid and white” and was charged with racially aggravated harassment.
Gill, the former players’ union chief executive who played 86 times for Australia, said the matter should never reached the courts.
“The trial was a waste of police and public resources. A matter that should have been resolved the night it happened,” she said.
“I hope both Sam and Kristie can move forward and focus on the exciting journey of becoming parents.”
The evidence, including body-cam footage of a drunken Kerr arguing with police, thrust Kerr’s reputation into the spotlight.
Over the weekend, former Socceroo Bruce Djite called for Kerr to be stripped of the captaincy.
The Chelsea striker has been out of action for a year due to a knee injury. Fullback Steph Catley has stood in as Matildas’ captain and will wear the armband in the SheBelieves Cup matches against Japan, the US and Colombia in matches later this month.
Gill said Kerr’s position as captain “should not be called into question”.
“As a person who takes responsibility for her actions and stands up for what’s right, Sam is more than fit to continue as the Matildas captain,” she said.
Beau Busch, chief executive of Professional Footballers Australia, also expressed support for Kerr.
“We welcome the verdict and continue to support Sam as she aims to return to football for both club and country in the coming months,” he said.
“Sam will continue to be an inspiration to many young footballers, and play an important ongoing role with the Matildas, especially with the Women’s Asian Cup on home soil next year.”
Kerr was quick to issue a statement after the trial, apologising for “expressing myself poorly on what was a traumatic evening”. Her legal team did not pursue costs.
Chelsea and Football Australia have not responded to requests for comment.
The Australian is expected to return to the pitch for Chelsea within a month.
