Teen back in national picture
TEENAGER Mary Fowler has been convinced to give the Matildas another shot, with the 16-year-old a headline inclusion by Ante Milicic in his 23-woman squad to take on world champion USA.
Fowler, who walked away from the national team under previous coach Alen Stajcic, will go to Colorado for the April 5 friendly and training camp.
Milicic said he “didn’t need to do a sell-job”, with her desire to represent Australia at the World Cup enough to convince the star teen to turn her back on declaring for Ireland.
“Very delighted that she’s expressed her interest to play for Australia,” he said.
“For her to commit to playing to Australia is fantastic news. Not only for us but I also believe for her development.”
Fowler also qualified to play for Ireland, due to her Irishborn father, or Papua New Guinea, the country of her mother’s birth.
She debuted for Australia at 15 against Brazil last year and stood out in a 1-1 draw against England soon after.
“We’ve had an opportunity with her coming back to Australia, she’s been training with Gary (van Egmond, assistant coach) at the Future Matildas program,” Milicic said.
US-based keeper Teagan Micah and Sydney FC’s Elizabeth Ralston will also have the chance to debut.
Captain Sam Kerr will lead the side, with five changes to the squad that won the Cup of Nations earlier this month.
Midfielder Katrina Gorry and attacking threat Chloe Logarzo return after injuries.
Alex Chidiac will remain in Spain with club Atletico Madrid, while Amy Harrison, Princess Ibini, Teresa Polias and Eliza Campbell have missed out. Kyah Simon has missed selection due to injury.
The exclusion of Michelle Heyman looks to be the death knell for her chance of reaching a second World Cup.
“We’ve had to name a 50girl squad for the World Cup . . . we’re keeping tabs on all of them,” Milicic said.