Matildas LIVE update: Kerr returns after ankle worries against Haiti in France

Football Australia released a statement this morning saying Steph Catley had left the Matildas’ camp, sighting her recent playing load with Arsenal.

“Matildas defender Steph Catley has departed camp and is not available for Australia’s match against Haiti,” the statement said.

“As part of a managed approach to the October international window, Catley’s involvement was planned in consultation with Arsenal FC, taking into account her recent availability at club level and overall playing load.”

Arsenal have had a rocky start to the Women’s Super League this season, finding themselves in 10th on the table despite finishing in second last year and even after making several marquee signings in the off-season.

The Matildas are also missing Mary Fowler this camp after she decided to withdraw to return to Australia following partner Nathan Cleary’s on-field injury during the NRL finals series last month.

Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the Matildas’ second friendly of this international window. After falling 4-2 against world No. 3s Germany, last week, the Matildas (ranked 15th) have now travelled to France where they play 47th in the world, Haiti.

The breaking news this morning is that Steph Catley has left camp and returned to Arsenal. More on that soon.

My name is Frances Howe, kick-off is at 6am (AEDT) and the match is being streamed on Paramount+.