The Australian football family is expecting a new addition with Westfield Matilda Melissa Barbieri announcing she is expecting her first child next February.
The Australian football family is expecting a new addition with Westfield Matilda Melissa Barbieri announcing she is expecting her first child next February.
The national team captain announced the news on Twitter, saying she plans to return to football in May 2013.
“It's official: Bun. In. Oven.” Barbieri said. “Buzzer/Timer set for 6th February 2013 Return to Playing circa May 2013 Future Mum & Dad stunned but elated.”
Following 10 years in the national team, including two as captain, Barbieri boasts 83 caps for the Westfield Matildas and is looking to continue to make her mark in football post the arrival of her first child.
“Honestly it was a shock,” said Barbieri from her Melbourne base.
“We decided we wanted to start a family and luckily it has happened very quickly for us.
“I will be taking advice from the USA captain Christie Rampone who juggles two children and returned to play at the elite level - not only that but she has now captained her team to Olympic gold.
“I hope to be back for our next Asian and World Cup cycle so that is the plan - to get back to lead the team again.
“Along with Heather Garriock I-m hoping to pave the way for other Westfield Matildas hoping to start a family and continue their football careers.”
With Lydia Williams currently recovering from ACL surgery, Briana Davey looks set to step up to the Westfield Matildas No.1 jersey, and could face Olympic champions United States on 16 September.