ACL injuries typically take nine to 12 months to recover from, although some players – like Matildas skipper Sam Kerr – suffer complications during their rehabilitation which can add to that timeframe. Kerr hurt her ACL in a training camp with Chelsea in January last year and has still not returned to the field, and may not until the beginning of next season.

Hopes were high that Fowler would help lead a remodelled attack for the Matildas at the Asian Cup but with her fitness in severe doubt, the next head coach will need to completely reimagine the team’s forward line.

“This is tough news for Mary and for all of us who know the dedication and passion she brings to her craft,” said Matildas interim coach Tom Sermanni, who will remain at the helm for their upcoming home friendlies against Argentina.

“She’s an exceptional talent and a much-loved member of our team, and we know she’ll meet this challenge with the same courage she brings to the pitch.

“Everyone in the Matildas and Football Australia family – players, coaches, and support staff – will be right behind Mary as she takes the first steps toward her comeback.”

Fowler will begin her rehab with Manchester City’s medical team, with Football Australia’s performance support staff to remain in close contact.

She had been in sparkling form for club and country, scoring in the second of the Matildas’ two recent clashes with South Korea while also enjoying her best season to date in England, having racked up 10 goals and 10 assists for City in all competitions. Seven of those assists came in the Women’s Super League, the most from any player this term.

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