Mary Fowler’s long-awaited return to international football has been confirmed with her selection in Australia’s squad for next month’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Fowler, who ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in her knee in April last year playing for Manchester City, returned to action for her English club team earlier this month in a 15-minute cameo off the bench.
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The 23-year-old attacker hasn’t played since, but Matildas coach Joe Montemurro has gambled on her fitness by naming her in his 26-player squad for the Cup, which is being hosted by Australia.
It’s a squad that will be captained by Chelsea star Sam Kerr, who last October made her first Matildas appearance in almost two years after recovering from her own knee reconstruction.
“Selecting a squad is never easy, but it is a privilege to bring together players who truly represent the identity and spirit of the Matildas, and who understand the responsibility of representing Australia,” Montemurro said.
“We have selected a strong mix of experienced leaders who understand what it means to wear the green and gold, alongside younger players who have earned their opportunity and will play a vital role in our future.
“Their commitment and growth are a testament not only to their own work, but also the strong culture that exists within the Matildas and the dedication of our coaching and support staff who help drive that environment every day.
“Hosting a major home tournament is an honour we do not take lightly.
“The team is ready, focused and determined to make the nation proud, and we look forward to sharing this moment with fans across the country.”
Defenders Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter, who will compete in their fourth and third Asian Cups respectively, will be the squad’s vice-captains.
The squad includes two A-League women’s players – Canberra United striker Michelle Heyman and Melbourne City forward Holly McNamara.
A notable absentee is Tottenham fullback Charlotte Grant, who is yet to return to club football after suffering a knee injury last year.
The Matildas’ open their Asian Cup campaign on March 1 in Perth against the Philippines.
Australia’s other Group A games are against Iran (March 5, Gold Coast) and South Korea (March 8, Sydney).
The top two teams from each of the three groups, plus the two best third-placers, will advance to the knockout stage.
Should Australia win their group they would play all knockout games in Sydney (quarter-final March 14, semi-final March 18 and final March 21) but as runners-up they would play twice in Perth (quarter-final March 13 and semi-final March 17).
The four semi-finalists will automatically qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, along with two play-in winners from amongst the quarter-final losers.
Australia’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup squad
Mackenzie Arnold (Portland Thorns, USA)
Ellie Carpenter (Chelsea, England)
Steph Catley (Arsenal, England)
Alex Chidiac (FC Como, Italy)
Kyra Cooney-Cross (Arsenal, England)
Caitlin Foord (Arsenal, England)
Mary Fowler (Manchester City, England)
Katrina Gorry (West Ham, England)
Winonah Heatley (AS Roma, Italy)
Michelle Heyman (Canberra United)
Clare Hunt (Tottenham Hotspur, England)
Kahli Johnson (Calgary Wild, Canada)
Alanna Kennedy (London City Lionesses, England)
Sam Kerr (Chelsea, England)
Holly McNamara (Melbourne City)
Teagan Micah (OL Lyonnes, France)
Courtney Nevin (Malmo, Sweden)
Jamilla Rankin (Hoffenheim, Germany)
Hayley Raso (Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany)
Charlize Rule (Brighton & Hove Albion, England)
Amy Sayer (Malmo, Sweden)
Remy Siemsen (Rosengard, Sweden)
Kaitlyn Torpey (Newcastle United, England)
Emily van Egmond (Leicester City, England)
Clare Wheeler (Everton, England)
Jada Whyman (AIK, Sweden)