The mystery surrounding Kiah Simone's problems at the FIFA Women's World Cup and his absence from the A-League this season has been solved – with the club confirming their star striker is suffering from a calf injury.
Simon, 32, was controversially named in the Matildas' World Cup squad despite not playing since tearing her anterior cruciate ligament in October 2022.
Matildas coach Tony Gustafsson stood by his decision to appoint the injured player to the lead, even though she never took to the field.
It was revealed during the tournament that Simone suffered a “setback” meaning she could only be used as a penalty kick taker. When Gustafsson had the opportunity, he kept the experienced player on the bench.
The nature of the “setback” was never revealed.
Simone was dumped by English club Tottenham in the lead-up to the World Cup – but was signed by the rejuvenated A-League women's side Central Coast Mariners, alongside partner Faye Bryson.
The striker was honest at the start of the season, telling this label she was still undergoing rehab and wasn't sure when she would be fit to play, but she was hopeful it would be in the early part of the season.
But the nine-round star has not yet taken the field, with the club so far keeping the nature of her injury a secret.
The spokesman said: “(Simon) is recovering from a calf injury he suffered during the World Cup, in addition to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.”
“She is currently in full contact training with the group approaching return.”
The spokesman said she was unlikely to play against Sydney FC this weekend, but could return for Unite's opening round the following week.
It marks a five-month recovery period from the setback during the FIFA World Cup, with Australia's campaign ultimately plagued by multiple injuries including a Sam Kerr calf strain and concussions for Mary Fowler, Alana Kennedy and Ivy Lueck.
Kerr's 'mild' calf injury allowed the skipper to return to play a part in the Matildas' rise to the semi-finals, but the fact that it has now taken Simone such a long absence to be fit for the match speaks to the seriousness of her injury and the cone of silence that has enabled the Australian camp to keep details of her fitness in check. A closely guarded secret.
Simon's return could be what the Mariners need to revive their season, having won just three of their nine games.
Central Coast Mariners take on Sydney FC at 6pm on Sunday (AEST).
