Soccer-Catley replaces Kerr as Australia skipper for Olympic qualifiers

Gustavsson, who guided the Matildas to the semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and the last four of the Women’s World Cup on home soil last year, said Kerr remained an integral part of the Matildas.

“We’re supporting Sam any way we can,” the Swede told reporters from London.

“She’s still going to be part of the team even though she’s not present in the locker room or on the pitch. I know for a fact that Sam wants it to be about the team, not her, now.

“It’s all about qualifying for the Olympics.”

Gustavsson was naming his squad for the two-legged tie against Uzbekistan later this month that will determine if Australia qualify for the Olympics for a fifth time.

Among the contenders to replace Kerr up front is 35-year-old Michelle Heyman, recalled six years after winning the last of her 61 caps despite having already announced her retirement from…