Montemurro backs Fowler withdrawal and Matildas' creative depth
With three creative players unavailable, the Australia coach has highlighted Dani Galic, Alana Murphy and uncapped Hana Lowry as options.
Matildas coach Joe Montemurro says Mary Fowler has the team's backing after withdrawing for personal reasons from Australia's friendlies against Germany and Haiti. He remains confident the squad can cover her absence.
Fowler, 23, was involved in discussions alongside her club, Manchester City, and other relevant people, Montemurro said. He would not expand on her private circumstances, but said he considered the decision appropriate and believed everyone supported it.
Kyra Cooney-Cross and Katrina Gorry are also unavailable, leaving Australia without three creative options for the matches. Germany are ranked third in the world. Montemurro pointed to Vittsjo's Dani Galic, Nottingham Forest's Alana Murphy and Valerenga's uncapped Hana Lowry, saying he saw them as Australia's next generation in midfield.
Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold said players sometimes needed to put personal matters ahead of football. While she had not experienced that situation herself, she said it was important to trust a coach to allow a return home when needed.
