After being a Matildas regular for close to four years, Sydney FC's Servet Uzunlar stepped away from the game in late 2013 for year.

Like many players who make their way through the Australian football pyramid, football had been a large part of the defender's life from a young age.

W-League titles, Asian Cup victory and World Cup appearances came in quick succession but the constant pressure and travel also took a toll.

In the end Uzunlar took a much needed break from the women's game.

"[I] just enjoyed myself, enjoyed the break," said Uzunlar on her football free year.

"I enjoyed being a bit of a 'normal' person so to speak. I think I needed the time away, just a as person to grow."

"The time was very good. I learned a lot about myself."

Ultimately the game which had been a large part of her life came calling once again.

"It had made me miss the game but it has also given me a lot of perspective about the game itself."

"I am a very different person stepping into the game at this point in time."

Back in the fold and under long time mentor Alen Stajcic, the Asian Cup winner is looking to be part of a second World Cup campaign with the Matildas.

Stajcic's side are about to commence the crucial part of the preparations that includes the Cyprus Cup as well as 5 internationals in Europe.  On how the squad is shaping up, Uzunlar is confident it is all starting to come together.

"The preparations for the Cyprus Cup are shaping up really well. We are looking really good and we are just looking forward to getting some internationals under our belt."

Australia commences their Cyprus Cup campaign on 4 March 2015.

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