Women’s Footballer of the Year contender Sam Kerr

BBC Women's Footballer-of-the Year 2021: Sam Kerr profile
Each of the five candidates for the BBC Women’s Footballer Award 2021 is being profiled. Vote for your winner at the BBC Sport website, or further down this webpage until Monday 8th November at 09:00 GMT. The BBC World Service will broadcast the result on Monday 29 November and the BBC Sport website on Monday 29 November.

Age: 28 Positions: Forward Plays For: Australia and Chelsea

2020-2021: Achievements

Won the Women's Super League, Continental League Cup, and Community Shield

WSL Top Scorer 2020-21 Season with 21 goals in 22 games

Named in the IFFHS AFC Woman Team of the Decade

Did you know?

With 18 goals, holds the record for most goals in a National Women's Soccer League Season.

In 2009, she made her international debut at age 15

He has been known to do a backflip celebration

In her own words

What do you think about your second nomination within two years?

"It's nice being nominated against so much other great names. It's a huge honor."

What does it feel like to win trophies with Chelsea

Overall, I believe it was a very successful year. It was my first season as a full-time player at the club. This was a great experience, but I now want to win more trophies. It's likely that you will never be happy, so it was a good year. But I believe we can still grow."

What is it worth to be a top scorer?

"As a striker, you want to score as many goals and as many goals as possible. But I have never thought 'I want the golden boot'. It's something I have always done. I think it's the best thing for football.

Which type of goal do you prefer to score?

"I would be lying if i said that I didn't like headers; I think I am pretty good at the air. Because a goal is a goal, no matter what it does, I prefer the easiest ones.

What was London's experience during the pandemic and how did it affect your daily life?

"I love London. I have really enjoyed my time there. Covid has stopped me exploring London but it's a great place to live. There are so many Aussies in London and it's one I love. Everyone is so welcoming, and the football culture here is incredible.

Have you found motivation from last season's Champions League final loss?

It motivates you. You lose a game, a Champions League final or an Olympics. But it's a good motivator. It's one those learning curves that is very beneficial. It's something I want to win more than ever. I'm certain we'll do our best, but we won't be looking back at last year. We are moving forward and looking to the future.

What about the bronze-medal match at the Olympics?

"I have said this in every interview I have done since then. I believe that one day I will look back on it and consider it a proud moment in my career, but for now it is hard to swallow. Fourth place is the worst, as you are only one game away of a medal. Although it's the best finish that the Matildas ever achieved, it still feels disappointing. We'll get a podium at the next Olympics and World Cup.

It is so important to be nominated by fans for an award.

"I believe fans are football, and I think we have realized over the past few years that football is not as great without them." These awards are very important to me. They allow players to be recognized for their efforts and commitment to the game, but also give fans a voice and let them feel part of the game.

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