Matildas back Fowler's withdrawal from upcoming friendlies

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 00:31 · Archive

Mary Fowler has withdrawn from the Matildas squad for friendlies against Germany and Haiti for personal circumstances, with coach Joe Montemurro's support.

Mary Fowler has withdrawn from the Matildas squad for upcoming friendlies against Germany on Saturday and Haiti on Wednesday, citing personal circumstances. Coach Joe Montemurro said the decision was made after discussions with Fowler, her club Manchester City, and other relevant parties. 'It's really important that we create an environment that is important for the player, and as the circumstances are private I'm not going to elaborate,' Montemurro said. 'But yes, absolutely, we believe that we've made the right decision and I think everyone's in support of the situation.'

There has been speculation that Fowler returned to Australia to support her partner Nathan Cleary, a Penrith rugby league star who required emergency surgery after suffering a career-threatening broken leg in the Panthers' NRL preliminary final loss in late September. Football Australia has not confirmed this. Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold said she messaged both Fowler and Cleary when his injury happened, but is unsure of the actual reason for Fowler's withdrawal.

Montemurro said the Matildas have the creative players available to cover Fowler's absence. Players opting out of international windows for personal reasons is not rare given the intense schedules of club and international football.

How it is being reported

• Matildas coach throws support behind star Mary Fowler after her sudden withdrawal from the squadCoach Joe Montemurro says the Matildas support Mary Fowler's decision to miss upcoming friendlies for personal circumstancesDaily Mail Sport · 9 Oct, 00:05
• Matildas coach backs Mary Fowler's absence from friendliesCoach Joe Montemurro has said the Matildas support Mary Fowler's decision to miss upcoming friendlies for personal circumstances and is adamant they have the creative players available to cover her.ABC News Australia · 8 Oct, 10:15

In this story: Mary Fowler · Joe Montemurro · Nathan Cleary · Matildas · Manchester City · Penrith Panthers · Germany · Haiti

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