Jess Fishlock: Boss Ryan Wilkinson hails Wales great’s retirement

The Australia match will be Wales’ first since Euro 2025, their first appearance in a major tournament.

Fishlock was integral to the historic qualification and, having enjoyed a stellar club career that saw her win titles all over the world, the Cardiff-born playmaker said she had fulfilled a lifelong dream of representing her country in such a competition.

Three months on from the European Championship in Switzerland, Wales fans will have the opportunity to show their appreciation for Fishlock on home soil on Saturday.

“That was always the plan,” Wilkinson said. “After the big tournament, scheduling a friendly against a great opponent at home in Cardiff, for any player who might want to retire, I think it was good to know that was on the schedule or on the horizon.

“So they didn’t have to play the last match in the UEFA Nations League and think ‘Was this the last time I played in Wales?’ They knew there would always be a home game after the tournament where they could make the decision. That was important to me.”

Another player to bid farewell during Australia’s visit is Kylie Barton, who will not play after announcing her retirement from football in August.

Wilkinson is keen to use this occasion to honor former striker Barton, who played 89 international matches for Wales and now coaches Saltdean United.

Wilkinson suggested other Wales players might choose to retire within the next year or two, and if they do, she hopes they deal with the decision as Fishlock did.

Wilkinson added: “We had a lot of conversations. It’s a special moment when someone makes that final decision, and she’s taking it really well about it.”

“She didn’t have any tense moments. She took her time, had a lot of conversations with her loved ones, and when she was ready, it was very clear to her.

“I sat in the chair at that moment when I decided to retire, and it’s a privilege for me to be able to do that. But we need to acknowledge Kylie Barton as well. These two women have given so much.”

“Sitting there on the other end of the phone when they make that decision, it’s not easy to hear, but I’m also very appreciative of everything they’ve done,” he added.