After announcing she won't return to the W-League this season despite FFA's fervent attempts to keep their star marquee in the competition, Kerr is expected to follow European opportunities.

It's a key moment in Kerr's career, that dovetails perfectly with her Ballon d'Or nomination. Kerr has infamously been snubbed for a variety of FIFA's top honours, with the awards generally considered heavily Euro-centric.

If a move to a European super club, with Chelsea the name bandied about most so far, pays off for Kerr, a Ballon d'Or win could become a lot more likely for the deadly striker.

For their part, FFA chairman Chris Nikou and CEO David Gallop heaped praise on the mercurial talent.

“Our congratulations to Sam on this fantastic individual honour," Nikou said.

"Her performances for both the Westfield Matildas and her club teams - including Perth Glory in the Westfield W-League - have been of the highest quality.”

“Australian football is blessed to have a player of her quality both on and off the pitch. She is a wonderful ambassador for her club teams, the Westfield Matildas and women’s football the world over."

“Her focus in preparation and determination to make every moment on the pitch matter is what sets her apart," Gallop continued.

“Sam has become a shining example to all young Australian footballers that to be the best that you can be, you need to work as hard as you can.

With that exemplary approach to her performance, she’ll just keep getting better and better."

UPCOMING MATILDAS MATCHES

Westfield Matildas v Chile

Date: Saturday, 9 November 2019
Venue: Bankwest Stadium, Parramatta
Kick-off: 3.00pm (AEDT)
Tickets: Tickets on sale now via matildas.com.au
Broadcast: Live in Australia on FOX SPORTS, ABC TV, Kayo Sports, and via the My Football Live App, Live, Fast, and Data Free for Telstra mobile customers

Westfield Matildas v Chile
Date: Tuesday, 12 November 2019
Venue: Coopers Stadium, Adelaide
Kick-off: 7.00pm (ACDT); 7.30pm (AEDT)
Tickets: Tickets on sale now via matildas.com.au
Broadcast: Live in Australia on FOX SPORTS, ABC TV, Kayo Sports, and via the My Football Live App, Live, Fast, and Data Free for Telstra mobile customers