Cooney Cross Missing Matches as Kerr Gives Positive Update on Return
Wednesday at 9: 14 a. m. ET — Kyra Cooney-Cross has not featured in the Matildas’ first two Women’s Asian Cup matches, and cooney cross’s absence matters as Australia weighs midfield selections while the tournament progresses.
Cooney Cross’s Camp Return and Kerr’s Update
Cooney-Cross missed both opening matches after spending time away from the squad to be with family following her mum Jess’s diagnosis with a rare, incurable bile duct cancer in January. She returned to club action for Arsenal in the Champions League on February 12 but was reportedly unwell before joining the Matildas’ camp on home soil. The 24-year-old did not take the field in the Matildas’ 4-0 win over Iran on the Gold Coast, though she was visible in the mixed zone and shared a moment with captain Sam Kerr.
Kerr gave a positive update on Cooney-Cross’s condition, saying the midfielder “did a session today” and that “she feels good, ” adding hope that “in the next few games we’ll see her. ” Kerr also noted Cooney-Cross’s upbeat demeanour, saying she “always got a smile on her face, ” and emphasised the value of having her in camp with the squad’s support.
Montemurro Names Alanna Kennedy and Clare Wheeler in No. 6 Debate
Coach Joe Montemurro has highlighted the depth available in the No. 6 midfield role, calling it an “embarrassment of riches” as he discussed selection after the Iran match in his post-match press conference. Montemurro praised Alanna Kennedy for excelling in the position against Iran and pointed to Clare Wheeler’s strong showing in the opener versus the Philippines, underlining the tactical choices facing the staff.
Montemurro said he faces difficult decisions when picking players at the highest levels, explaining that different midfielders offer distinct profiles and that timing and distribution are key elements in the No. 6 role. Those comments frame the challenge Cooney-Cross will meet should she return to full fitness and push for a starting berth.
Cooney Cross’s Experience, Caps and Path Back to the XI
At 24 years old, Cooney-Cross already has 63 caps for Australia and is described within the squad as a crucial midfield presence. Her recent time away and a bout of illness before camp mean she must rebuild momentum to reclaim a starting spot, particularly with Kennedy and Wheeler both earning plaudits in the opening fixtures.
Cooney cross completed at least one training session in camp while surrounded by team support, and staff will balance her fitness and form against the collective options Montemurro has outlined. Supporters remain hopeful of seeing more of the fan favourite as selections evolve through the tournament.
Clarity on Cooney-Cross’s playing status is expected ahead of the Matildas’ upcoming match with South Korea; the coaching staff will confirm selection plans before that fixture.
