New coach Ante Milicic named his 23-player squad for the Cup of Nations on Thursday but the announcement was once again overshadowed by the ongoing drama of Stajcic's dismissal last month.

The FFA sacked Stajcic in January, citing an internal review which had exposed a "toxic" team culture and other issues such as bullying, fat-shaming and homophobic remarks.

Several Australian players expressed their shock at the decision but Polkinghorne wants a united front heading into the World Cup in France.

"There was a lot of speculation about the group and it's important that we don't lose focus as a team," the veteran defender said.

"We all want to win the World Cup and that hasn't changed.

"We've just got to remember we're here to play football and that's what we want to do."

Milicic will wait until the squad assembles for a pre-tournament camp in Brisbane on Saturday before addressing his players, saying he preferred to speak face-to-face to his charges.

Polkinghorne had a brief chat with the ex-Socceroo at Thursday's squad announcement and liked what she saw.

"Really positive. I think you can see his professionalism and his determination and how focused he is on what we want to achieve as a group," she said.

"I'm sure that'll be transferred over to the playing group."

Joining Polkinghorne in the Cup of Nations squad is Brisbane Roar teammate Hayley Raso, who remains on track to go to the World Cup less than a year after suffering a broken back on club duty.

Polkinghorne said Raso's return continued to be an inspiration.

"She's an attacking weapon for us and to have her back on the pitch not only for Brisbane Roar but for the Matildas is fantastic."

Australian Associated Press