Matildas great Lydia Williams ruled out of remaining A-League Women season

Melbourne Victory has confirmed that experienced goalkeeper Lydia Williams will miss the remainder of the A-League Women season due to injury, casting a shadow over the career prospects of the Matildas legend. Williams officially retired from the Matildas last June, but she has not featured for Victory this season since suffering a wrist injury and recently underwent surgery.

While Victory had previously been reluctant to rule out a return for Williams, head coach Jeff Hopkins conceded on Thursday that her season is likely over. Williams' last club appearance was in last season's elimination final loss to Central Coast Mariners. Her contract is set to expire at the end of this season.

The 36-year-old Williams has yet to decide on her future, and the team will give her time and space to consider her options. Hopkins said on Thursday, "It's looking like Lydia probably won't feature this season. She's had surgery, and although the surgery went well, I don't think it's going to allow her to be available to play this season." Hopkins declined to speculate on Williams' future beyond this season.

Hopkins said, "I haven't delved too deeply into that. Obviously, it's disappointing for her that the injury has taken this long to recover. I don't know… I don't want to speak for Lydia either. I think it's best left for later and for Lydia to answer herself."

Williams bid an emotional farewell to the Matildas national team last June in a friendly against China. She represented the Matildas in 104 matches, participating in five World Cups, six Asian Cups (including the 2010 victory), and two Olympic Games. Her club career has also been illustrious, having played for Melbourne City, Canberra United, and clubs in the United States, England, and Europe, including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

In Williams' absence, Courtney Newbon has been Victory's starting goalkeeper, while Gabi Candi, who recently received her first call-up to the New Zealand national team, serves as her backup.