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By ANDREW PRENTICE, SPORTS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA Published: 11: 28 AEDT, 6 February 2026 | Updated: 11: 28 AEDT, 6 February 2026 1 View comments Matildas star Mary Fowler has revealed her determination to play in the Asian Cup which begins in Australia next month - and confirmed her return from a ruptured ACL will be heavily managed. Fowler, 22, made her comeback in Manchester City's thumping 5-1 win over Chelsea on February 2, a result which virtually seals the Women's Super League title for the Citizens. After the centre forward was injured against crosstown rivals Manchester United last April, one of Fowler's first thoughts was potentially missing the Asian Cup on home soil. Well aware it could be the last tournament hosted in Australia following the World Cup in 2023, Fowler has been diligent in her recovery. An automatic selection, Fowler will be in the final squad named by Joe Montemurro, but what role she plays remains unclear. 'From the moment I got injured, there were thoughts about the Asian Cup. .. can I be back before then? ' she told the Sydney Morning Herald. Matildas star Mary Fowler has revealed her determination to play in the Asian Cup next month - and confirmed her return from a ruptured ACL will be closely managed Fowler made her comeback in Manchester City's resounding 5-1 win over Chelsea on February 2, a result which virtually seals the WSL title for the Citizens After rupturing her ACL last April, one of Fowler's first thoughts was potentially missing the Asian Cup on home soil (pictured, during the 2023 World Cup) 'I would love to be there, and ideally have played some games beforehand. '(In saying that) being able to watch the girls (while injured), it's been really nice to see how well they're doing. .. and not have any feelings of envy. ' Fowler's relationship with NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has captivated fans since they officially started dating in 2023. The high-profile athletes live on opposite sides of the world, but have managed to make their romance work. Cleary jetted over to the UK last October for the Kangaroos Rugby League Ashes tour against England. The halfback was able to spend some time with Fowler when the tourists travelled to Liverpool to play at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium. 'I was based in Manchester (with the Kangaroos) because that’s where Mary is. .. she was training at the time and I didn’t want to leave too often, ' Cleary said. 'It was really nice to spend an extended period of time together. ' Speaking about Fowler's injury rehabilitation, Cleary added: 'With such a long rehab, you don’t want to rush it when it gets to the end. 'She’s done her due diligence, so I’m excited for her. '
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