Heyman back in Matildas reckoning
Nov 21, 2017 - 10:05 PM Michelle Heyman has pledged to play through the pain as she looks to rebuild a Matildas career shattered by an ankle injury.The 29-year-old was a mere spectator this year as Alen Stajcic's national side rocketed through the ranks.
A savage ankle sprain late last December was Heyman's first serious injury of a decade-long career, laying her out for more than six months.
"They said it was the most severe high ankle sprain they'd ever seen," she said.
"I went up to go for a header and jumped more than a metre to get the ball. I landed and my foot was turned around to face my face.
"I keep the photo in my phone in case I need to show another doctor," she laughs.
The lay-off has meant a Matildas absence dating back to the Olympics in August last year.
She's hungry to replace the memory of the penalty shootout defeat to Brazil with new Matildas memories.
"I didn't know what an injury even was. For me to be 29 and have one injury, that's pretty good. No, it's incredible," she said.
"I was heartbroken when I couldn't (play) but I looked at myself and said 'Michelle, why?'
"So to be back, I'm over the moon.
"I can still feel the niggle. I think it's just going to be my new ankle. I'll just ignore it and jog it off."
Heyman earned her place in the Matildas squad - which plays China in two friendlies in Victoria this week - with three goals in as many games for Canberra United in this year's W-League.
In her time off the pitch, Heyman - who is openly gay and won the sports personality of the year at the inaugural Australian LGBTI awards in March - has also realised her appreciation for her home.
The striker has spent time playing in Denmark and the USA but has all but ruled out future overseas moves.
"I'm at that age where that's enough," she said.
"I want to build my future off the field. Being an advocate for the LGBTI community is something I want to be a part of and to do that in Australia I need to be here."
Source: AAP
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