Matildas announce Algarve Cup squad

The Matildas have named their 22-player squad for the 2018 Algarve Cup in Portugal.

Attacker Kyah Simon who pulled up with a hamstring injury in the W-League Grand Final on Sunday has been ruled out of the tournament.

She will be replaced by 19-year-old Adelaide United midfielder Alex Chidiac.

It is hoped that Simon will be fit to re-join the Matildas upon their return to Australia next month for their Asian Cup preparations.

Stajcic said that while it is disappointing that Simon and Caitlin Foord will not be at the Algarve Cup, their absence will provide opportunities for other players.

“We would love to have Kyah and Caitlin with us in Portugal however it is in their best interests to remain in Australia and continue their respective recoveries,” said Stajcic.

“We’ll have four games over just eight days in Portugal, so the tournament will provide a chance for all the players involved in the squad to impress as we move towards the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

“Hopefully our performances in Portugal will continue to drive momentum leading into our next match on Australian soil in Perth, as well as the [AFC Women’s] Asian Cup,” he said.

The squad also includes debutant midfielder Emily Condon from Adelaide United.

Condon, who is 19-year-old, has previously played 12 matches with the Young Matildas.

All matches at the 2018 Algarve Cup will be broadcast live on FOX SPORTS.