Westfield Matildas star excited about move to Chicago in NWSL

Westfield Matildas star Sam Kerr admits she was "surprised" to be traded to Chicago Red Stars in America’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) last month. 

In a huge shock, Kerr – the 2017 NWSL Player of the Year - was traded from Sky Blue FC to Chicago.

Despite setting an all-time goals record in a phenomenal campaign for the 24-year-old, Kerr was moved on by her New Jersey-based club in favour of US international Carli Lloyd.

“I didn’t expect to be going to Chicago but also very excited for a new challenge in a team that has been in the semi-finals the last few years,” Kerr said in an interview on the Chicago Red Stars website.

“I am most excited to link back up with Vanessa Di Bernardo and Alyssa Mautz. I previously played with them at Perth Glory and loved playing with them both.

“Also exploring Chicago, which I’ve heard is a great city.”

Off the field, Kerr admitted she’ll miss living close to the beach on the Jersey shore but is already targeting glory with her new club.

“Win a championship,” said Kerr when asked the one thing she wanted to do in Chicago.

“I think the fans are always excited about the Red Stars, but hopefully they are as excited about me and Nikki [Stanton] being on the team as much as I am excited about playing for the club.

“I think I bring a lot of fun to the field too, so hopefully they can see that!”

The 2018 NWSL season begins in April.