Matildas coach Alen Stajcic has called on his big guns for back-to-back games against Chile in Penrith and Newcastle later this month.
Sam Kerr will return for the Matildas in a full-strength line-up to play Chile in back-to-back matches on home soil later this month.
Coach Alen Stajcic included the Perth striker, as well as fellow regulars Alanna Kennedy, Emily van Egmond, Lydia Williams and Katrina Gorry in the 20-player squad announced on Thursday to play in Penrith and Newcastle on November 10 and 13.
The world No.6 side managed a 1-1 draw against England – ranked three places higher – but fell 2-0 to fourth-placed France without that quintet in Europe last month.
Encouraged by what he saw from his young side, Stajcic will welcome back his stars – who were either carrying niggles or rested – while also retaining the likes of Princess Ibini-Isei and Amy Sayer who both impressed on tour.
Despite shining in cameos off the bench, 15-year-old talent Mary Fowler did not retain her place in the squad.
The Matildas will enter camp on Monday, with experienced forward Michelle Heyman and defender Kennedy both in the mix for game time as they continue their comeback from injury.
The coach said Chile, currently sitting 39th in the rankings, would present a solid test ahead of the World Cup in France next year.
“With the draw for the tournament being held next month, it is vital that we continue to play and familiarise ourselves with a diverse range of opponents,” he said.
“Chile performed strongly at this year’s Copa America and in October secured a win and draw against South Africa.
“They will be a great challenge for us, but in front of large, vocal home crowds in Penrith and Newcastle I expect us to perform strongly.”
Laura Alleway, Mackenzie Arnold, Tameka Butt, Ellie Carpenter, Larissa Crummer, Lisa De Vanna, Caitlin Foord, Alex Chidiac, Emily Gielnik, Katrina Gorry, Michelle Heyman, Princess Ibini-Isei, Elise Kellond-Knight, Alanna Kennedy, Sam Kerr, Chloe Logarzo, Clare Polkinghorne, Amy Sayer, Emily Van Egmond, Lydia Williams.
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