Injury concerns have hampered the former Liverpool striker's pre-season progress and he will miss out on tonight's match against fellow new boys Gold Coast United at Skilled Park.  

However, Matheson can see how passionate Fowler is to get out on the pitch and ensure that his conditioning is at exactly the levels required to enjoy the contrasts and challenges thrown up by an A-League campaign.  

While Fowler's arrival in Townsville has generated plenty of positive publicity for the club, he was not purchased primarily as a marketing tool. He was signed to score goals as part of a team.  

Matheson told au.fourfourtwo.com: "Robbie isn't here for a cameo role. He's here to play. He is putting in double sessions most days and now it's not so much talking about an injured player, it's about getting him ready to play."  

While Fowler faces a while longer on the sidelines, his teammates will be looking to grab bragging rights when they face Gold Coast this evening. Fury's quest for goals is expected to fall on the shoulders of Daniel McBreen and Brendon Santalab in Fowler's absence.  

Triallists Paul Henderson and Roy Krishna are both expected to play some part in tonight's clash.

The hosts are without Jason Culina with a hamstring strain.