Melbourne City has confirmed our extended squad for Sunday’s Ninja A-League clash, as we return to action following the international break with a crucial home fixture against Canberra United.
After a three-week pause in the competition, City will be back in front of our home fans for the first time in five weeks when we host a top-of-the-table clash that could prove pivotal in the race for the Premiers Plate.
With just four games remaining in the regular season and Canberra sitting only three points behind us on the ladder, Sunday’s encounter shapes as one of the biggest matches of the campaign.
Head Coach Michael Matricciani has now locked in his squad for the blockbuster clash, with some positive news for City fans.
Welsh international Laura Hughes has been named in the extended squad after completing her rehabilitation from a knee injury that has kept her sidelined since early December. Hughes’ return provides an added boost to City’s midfield stocks as the team enters the final stretch of the season.
Izabella Rako has also been promoted to the extended squad for Sunday’s clash.
The remainder of the squad remains largely unchanged from our most recent fixture prior to the international break, as we look to maintain momentum heading into the decisive final rounds of the campaign.
There is, however, one notable absence with Golden Boot leader Holly McNamara still with the Matildas as the AFC Women’s Asian Cup reaches its knockout stages. Our opponents are also in a similar position, with Canberra’s captain and leading scorer Michelle Heyman also with the national team.
Ellie Wilson also remains unavailable as she continues her rehabilitation from an ankle injury.
Round 19 ALW Squad
3. Danielle TURNER, 5. Taylor OTTO, 6. Leticia McKENNA, 7. Danella BUTRUS, 8. Alexia APOSTOLAKIS, 10. Izabella RAKO, 11. Deven JACKSON, 12. Shelby McMAHON, 13. Rebekah STOTT, 14. Laura HUGHES, 15. Chinaza UCHENDU, 16. Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 18. Leah DAVIDSON, 20. Caitlin KARIC, 21. Aideen KEANE, 22. Bryleeh HENRY, 23. Melissa BARBIERI (GK), 24. Malena MIERES (GK).
In: 10. Izabella RAKO (promoted), 14. Laura HUGHES (returns from injury)
Out: 9. Holly MCNAMARA (international duty)
Unavailable: 2. Ellie WILSON (ankle), 9. Holly MCNAMARA (international duty)
