Football enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief as Matildas star Mary Fowler has been selected to represent Australia in the forthcoming Asian Cup, which will take place on home turf.

This announcement marks a significant comeback for the 23-year-old Fowler, who will don the national jersey for the first time since suffering an ACL injury in April of last year.

The tournament kicks off on March 1 and marks the first major challenge for the Matildas under the guidance of their new coach, Joe Montemurro. Leading the charge on the field will be the illustrious Sam Kerr, who has been appointed captain of the team.

The current squad boasts a blend of experience and fresh talent, with eight players poised to make their Asian Cup debut. Australia will face off against the Philippines in their opening match of the tournament.

Among the potential newcomers are Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Kahli Johnson, Jamilla Rankin, Charlize Rule, Amy Sayer, Kaitlyn Torpey, and Jada Whyman, all eyeing their first appearance in this prestigious competition.

Mary Fowler will return for the Matildas after recovering from an ACL injury

The workload of the 23-year-old (pictured, with boyfriend and NRL superstar Nathan Cleary) is likely to be managed

Fowler will join the Matildas team captained by veteran striker Sam Kerr (pictured)

Montemurro, who recently assumed the role of Matildas coach, acknowledged the challenges involved in finalizing the squad, underscoring the depth of talent he had to consider.

‘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,’ he said.

‘We have selected a strong mix of experienced leaders who understand what it means to wear the green and gold.

‘(They will be) alongside younger players who have earned their opportunity and will play a vital role in our future.’

Montemurro also explained his squad is well aware they are privileged to host the tournament.

‘It is an honour we do not take lightly,’ he added.

‘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.’

Australia bombed out in the quarter-finals of the last Asian Cup after losing to South Korea.

The Manchester City forward (pictured) recently returned to play in the Women’s Super League 

Matildas coach Joe Montemurro (pictured) knows he has a major challenge in his first Asian Cup in charge

The Matildas won the tournament back in 2010.

Australia’s 26-player squad: Alanna Kennedy, Alex Chidiac, Amy Sayer, Caitlin Foord, Charlize Rule, Clare Hunt, Clare Wheeler, Courtney Nevin, Ellie Carpenter (vc), Emily Van Egmond, Hayley Raso, Holly McNamara, Jada Whyman, Jamilla Rankin, Kahli Johnson, Kaitlyn Torpey, Katrina Gorry, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler, Michelle Heyman, Remy Siemsen, Sam Kerr (c), Steph Catley (vc), Teagan Micah and Winonah Heatley.

Channel 10 and Paramount+ will provide live coverage of Matildas fixtures during the Asian Cup.