Sam Kerr has ended speculation around her future by signing a new two-year contract with Chelsea.
The striker’s previous deal had been due to expire at the end of this month and it was rumoured that she could leave west London following the departure of manager Emma Hayes.
Kerr, however, has now signed a new deal with Chelsea that will run until the summer of 2026 in what is a huge boost to incoming boss Sonia Bompastor.
The news came as something of a shock to fans, who believed that Kerr’s departure was imminent after an initial video posted on social media on Thursday which appeared to hint strongly at her exit.
“It’s really exciting and a very proud moment for me,” said Kerr. “Having the opportunity to stay at a club like Chelsea means a lot to me. I’m really excited to continue to push and to try to win trophies.”
The contract is also a show of faith by Chelsea in Kerr, who has had a difficult season both on and off the field.
In January, the Australian suffered a serious knee injury that means she will miss this summer’s Olympics in Paris.
Kerr is also due to face a criminal trial in February next year for alleged racially aggravated harassment of a police officer.
The 30-year-old appeared at Kingston Crown Court via video link in May to plead not guilty following an incident which dates back to January last year.
Since joining Chelsea midway through the 2019-20 season, Kerr has been a huge success. She has helped the club to win five Women’s Super League (WSL) titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups and the Community Shield.
Kerr was runners-up in the Women’s Ballon d’Or last year and needs just one more goal to take her tally for Chelsea to 100.
As part of Kerr’s contract announcement, Chelsea are renaming their grounds Stamford Bridge and Kingsmeadow in her honour. They will temporarily be known as ‘Samford Bridge’ and ‘Kerrsmeadow’.
