Matildas forward Mary Fowler has openly declared her strong ambition to participate in the Asian Cup tournament, which commences on Australian soil next month. The 22-year-old football star has confirmed that her return to competitive play following a serious ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injury will be meticulously and heavily managed by her medical and coaching teams.
Comeback in Manchester City's Victory
Fowler recently made her highly anticipated comeback during Manchester City's emphatic 5-1 triumph over Chelsea in the Women's Super League on February 2. This decisive result has effectively secured the WSL championship title for Manchester City, showcasing the team's dominance this season. Fowler's return to the pitch marks a significant milestone in her recovery journey after sustaining the ACL injury last April.
Injury Concerns and Asian Cup Aspirations
After suffering the ACL rupture during a match against crosstown rivals Manchester United in April, one of Fowler's immediate and primary concerns was the potential of missing the Asian Cup tournament being hosted in her home country. Well aware that this could represent the final major football tournament held in Australia following the successful 2023 Women's World Cup, Fowler has demonstrated remarkable diligence and commitment throughout her rehabilitation process.
In an exclusive interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Fowler elaborated on her mindset following the injury. "From the moment I got injured, there were thoughts about the Asian Cup...can I be back before then?" she revealed. The talented centre forward expressed her heartfelt desire, stating, "I would love to be there, and ideally have played some games beforehand."
Supporting Teammates and Managing Expectations
Despite her personal ambitions, Fowler acknowledged the positive experience of supporting her teammates from the sidelines during her recovery period. "Being able to watch the girls while injured, it's been really nice to see how well they're doing...and not have any feelings of envy," she commented, highlighting her team-oriented perspective.
As an automatic selection for the Australian national team, Fowler is expected to be included in the final squad announced by head coach Joe Montemurro. However, the specific role she will play during the tournament remains uncertain and will likely depend on her fitness levels and the careful management of her minutes on the pitch.
Relationship with NRL Star Nathan Cleary
Fowler's high-profile relationship with NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has captivated sports fans across Australia since the couple officially began dating in 2023. The two elite athletes maintain a long-distance relationship, with Fowler based in the United Kingdom for her football career and Cleary residing in Australia for his rugby league commitments.
International Visits and Support System
Cleary traveled to the United Kingdom last October as part of the Kangaroos Rugby League Ashes tour against England. During this international trip, the halfback was able to spend valuable time with Fowler when the Australian team traveled to Liverpool to compete at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium. Cleary explained his decision, saying, "I was based in Manchester with the Kangaroos because that’s where Mary is...she was training at the time and I didn’t want to leave too often."
Reflecting on their time together, Cleary added, "It was really nice to spend an extended period of time together," emphasizing the importance of their connection despite geographical challenges.
Support During Rehabilitation
Speaking about Fowler's extensive injury rehabilitation process, Cleary offered his perspective and support. "With such a long rehab, you don’t want to rush it when it gets to the end," he noted wisely. Expressing confidence in his partner's approach, Cleary concluded, "She’s done her due diligence, so I’m excited for her," acknowledging Fowler's disciplined recovery efforts.
