The co-hosts have coped admirably without their talisman and the poster girl of the tournament who has been restricted to a bit-part role so far after she came into the World Cup nursing a calf injury.
Kerr, however, has been drafted into the starting XI by Matilda’s manager Tony Gustavasson and she will face a familiar face in Chelsea teammate and England defender Millie Bright.
Australia had hinted that Kerr was likely to start on the bench and Scott fears her inclusion will force Sarina Wiegman into a major rethink.
She told the BBC: ‘We had a big discussion yesterday about Sam and whether we thought she would be starting or coming off the bench to have an impact.
‘Some players actually need to start the game and see how long they can go. Some players struggle to get up to the pace when they come into a game.
‘Someone like Sam though, England defenders you know OK I need to prepare differently now.’
England all-time record goalscorer Ellen White added: ‘You’re on your back foot a little bit and she’s coming up against Millie Bright who she knows really well so she’ll be a massive threat.
‘As soon as she gets the ball this stadium is going to erupt but can she last if this goes extra-time and is she fit enough if this game goes to extra time.’
Jess Carter, meanwhile, retained in England’s starting XI by Wiegman, insists the mood inside the dressing one was one of calm and anticipation ahead of kick-off.
‘Everyone is pretty chilled to be fair,’ she said: ‘Of course there is history in this kind of tournament for England but we’re looking to write our own history and looking to write new ones.
‘I think that everyone is just excited for the game. Everyone will go out there and give it their all and hopefully come out with a positive result.’
On the threat of Kerr, she added: ‘Obviously she is a top player but I think we’re well equipped to deal with her and what Australia throw at us.’
MORE : England vs Australia LIVE: FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final news as Lionesses gear up for Sydney kick off
MORE : England supporters flood Sydney streets ahead of crunch semi-final showdown with Australia
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