By Genevieve Henry (6/8/23)
Above: Clare Hunt in action for Australia against France. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
If the Clare’s combine, it could benefit both Everton and Australia.
Rumours circulating of a possible move to the English Women’s Super League for new Matilda Clare Hunt come with the promise of a bright future for the Australian back line. If she does indeed sign for Everton, a valuable partnership with a fellow Australian Clare will inevitably be formed. These two, Hunt and Wheeler, known as “Clare Squared”, could be a fantastic attribute to the Matildas defence.
Hunt, currently of Western Sydney Wanderers, only recently made her international debut but has been one of the most solid players for the Matildas at this World Cup so far. With eight or nine caps under her belt, she has become one of the most trusted members of the squad. She rarely makes errors, showing promise of a comforting new era for fans. The 24-year-old plays with a calmness and maturity a level above most centre backs, remarkable for such a young and inexperienced player. Clare Hunt is a blessing of a defender.
Wheeler has been in the squad a little longer, but has to compete for a far more competitive spot in the midfield. Although she shows immense talent as a number six, the formations being used by Tony Gustavsson don’t often require her to start. Wheeler does have a decent amount of experience under her belt now, with some starts and many substitute appearances. She has made a name for herself against top opposition, namely with a perfect tackle against the United States that lead to a goal from Kyah Simon. Clare Wheeler is a promising star in the midfield.
Together, Clare Squared could bring a sense of security to the Matildas of the future. Centrebacks and defensive midfielders need to be in perfect cohesion in order to limit miscommunication and errors that lead to goals. As these two already have a personal connection, it becomes much easier to trust in one another and to flow smoothly. These partnerships can only improve over time, especially if it’s at both club and country.
Hunt is a cautiously adventurous defender, often making good plays by bringing the ball up further on the field to play an accurate pass. When this happens, Wheeler can slot in and cover for her, as she is defensively sound. When the opponents counterattack and there isn’t time for Wheeler to get back, Hunt has shown that she is able to hold up the ball until help arrives.
Wheeler could also become part of the backline when one of the wingbacks takes a trip up the field and leaving an area dangerously exposed. She could slot in, cover and mark while Hunt faces the attacking player to quell the problem. Hunt is excellent in one-v-ones. After winning it, Wheeler would be a nearby option to release the ball to. This would not only improve play defensively but cause for smooth and quick attacks from the moment they start. With proper communication, Clare Squared could be a spectacle in the Matildas’ defence.
Whether or not Clare Hunt signs for Everton, she and Clare Wheeler will certainly develop beautifully together.
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