CALLED UP: City trio named in Matildas squad

Melbourne City trio Leah Davidson, Bryleeh Henry and Karly Roestbakken have been named in the Matildas squad for Australia’s two fixtures with Chinese Taipei in December.

Davidson, Henry and Roestbakken will join the team in the first week of December for a pair of friendlies at AAMI Park and GMHBA Stadium.

It’s a special moment for Davidson, who has earned her first Senior Matildas call-up after being a mainstay in Australia’s youth teams and in City’s midfield.

Catch the trio in action at this Saturday’s blockbuster day at home. The City Fan Festival presented by Federation University kicks off at 1:30pm, before City host Central Coast Mariners at 4:00pm.

Karly Roestbakken against Jamaica during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.

Equally as special will be Roestbakken’s return to the Matildas. The defender made her debut for Australia during one of the most memorable matches in recent history – the Matildas 3-2 victory over Brazil at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.

After breaking into the World Cup squad at just 18 and making her starting debut in the same tournament, Roestbakken suffered a horrid run of injuries and returns to the team following a strong couple of seasons with City.

Two-time capped Matilda, Henry, also returns to the team which she made her debut for in October 2021, as an 18-year-old against Brazil. The now 21-year-old’s move to fullback last season was key to City’s success and showcased her versatility, leading to her selection.