‘Offering all the support we can’: Matildas star weighs in on Sam Kerr drama, says Aussies deserve a medal at the Olympics

One of Sam Kerr’s most experienced teammates has offered the star striker her full support as the Matildas look to avenge years of heartbreak heading into the Olympics.

Veteran Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams couldn’t say much about an alleged incident involving superstar striker Sam Kerr last year that became public earlier this week, but she made it clear that the team is “offering all the support” it can.

Kerr will face trial in England next January accused of the racially aggravated harassment of a police officer after an incident involving a taxi fare more than a year ago, with reports she allegedly called the officer “a stupid white bastard”.

The alleged incident – to which she has pleaded not guilty to – has caused a stir with questions over why she kept the charge a secret for so long, with some people calling for Kerr to be stripped of the captaincy.

Kerr won’t feature at the Paris Olympics due to injury, but Williams was on Sydney Harbour for the official team uniform reveal where she was asked about her teammate.

Sam Kerr’s captaincy has been questioned after charges were revealed this week. Picture: Mark Metcalfe – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

“It’s a legal proceeding which is being done in a different country, so unfortunately I won’t be able to comment any further than that,” she said.

“Sam is a long-time teammate and friend, so we’re offering all the support that we can. At the end of the day, it’s a legal concern that I won’t be able to comment further.”

It comes after Kerr’s manager at Chelsea, Emma Hayes, gave her views on the issue.

Emma Hayes says Kerr has Chelsea’s support. Picture: Supplied

“Sam has our full support. She knows that. It’s a difficult time for her,” Hayes said on Wednesday.

“Of course I can’t comment, you know that. I can say I know she’s pleaded not guilty and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardise anything for Sam by speaking about it.

“For that reason, I’m sure you can appreciate that’s all I’m going to say on the matter, but she has our full support, she knows that, it’s really important I get that across. It’s something I really value.”

Meanwhile, Williams revealed she’s racing the clock to be included in Tony Gustavsson’s squad for the Olympics.

The veteran of five World Cups had ankle surgery last month and is hopeful she will be ready for Paris.

“Slow and steady wins the race,” she said as she showed off the new uniform that incorporates traditional Aboriginal artwork.

“I have a lot of support from the medical staff and the support staff, so I’m just making sure that mentally and physically I’m in the right shape and ready to go.

“Luckily for us, we have an extended lead-in to the Games, where the decision will come down to the last little bit of preparation.

“I think we’re going to be in camp and preparing like we have for previous campaigns, so there’s a good lead-in to see what’s the best dynamic for the team.”

Lydia Williams is hoping to win a medal after a heartbreaking finish to the World Cup. Picture: Adam Head

The Matildas have been one of Australia’s biggest success stories, but they want a medal this time around after finishing fourth in Tokyo and at the home World Cup last year.

“I think we have a bit of a chip on our shoulder,” Williams said.

“We want to make sure we have some silverware to prove the growth of the team, and I really think that Paris is the moment for us.

“I think all the girls are really excited to represent (Australia) and play football.”