Mary Fowler withdraws from Matildas squad for Germany, Haiti games

In short:

Mary Fowler has been replaced by Leah Davidson in the Australian squad for two upcoming internationals, with the Matildas star withdrawing for personal reasons.

Football Australia said her withdrawal was decided after talks with Fowler, Manchester City and Matildas staff.

What's next?

ABC Sport will blog the Matildas games against Germany (October 10, Australian time) and Haiti (October 13). 

Matildas star Mary Fowler has been withdrawn from the Australian squad for two upcoming internationals, due to personal circumstances. 

A release from Football Australia on Tuesday morning said the decision had been taken following discussions between Fowler, Manchester City and Matildas staff.

Fowler has been in solid form, coming on as a sub to spark a comeback win for Manchester City over WSL rivals Arsenal on Monday morning, Australian time.

There was no talk of injury after the game.

Fowler's partner, Nathan Cleary, is recovering in Sydney after leg surgery.

The Penrith Panthers NRL star went into the preliminary final against Newcastle with a broken foot, before suffering a compound fracture and a dislocated ankle in a hip-drop tackle, requiring emergency surgery.

Fowler has been replaced in the Australian squad by Charlton Athletic midfielder Leah Davidson. Davidson has made four appearances for the Matildas since her international debut in 2024.

The Matildas are playing two international friendlies in Europe as they continue preparations towards next year's FIFA Women's World Cup.

Australia split a two-match series with Mexico in June, with one win each.

Now the Matildas will face Germany in Karlsruhe on Saturday morning, Australian time before taking on Haiti in France on October 13.