Herdman Names Indonesia Squad with Surprising Selections for FIFA Series

Jakarta – Indonesia’s national team head coach, John Herdman, has announced a 41-player preliminary squad for the upcoming FIFA Series matches. The list, revealed by PSSI, includes several unexpected selections that have sparked discussion among fans, as Herdman prepares to trim the roster to 23 players for the match against Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 25th.

Surprise Players in Herdman’s First Garuda Calling

While the squad features many familiar faces, several inclusions have raised eyebrows. Here’s a closer look at some of the more surprising picks:

Jens Raven

The 20-year-old forward from Bali United has seen limited playing time, starting only once in 17 Super League appearances. His contribution to Bali United has been modest, with one goal and two assists. His inclusion is unexpected given his relatively limited impact at the club level.

Muhammad Ferrari

Currently not a regular starter for Bhayangkara FC, Muhammad Ferrari hasn’t featured in his club’s last six Super League matches. The former Persija Jakarta player has made 12 Super League appearances with seven starts. His selection is a surprise considering his lack of recent game time.

Fajar Fathurrahman

Fajar Fathurrahman has received his first call-up to the senior Indonesian national team, having performed well with Borneo FC, appearing in 21 matches according to Transfermarkt records. He provides an option at right full-back, a position already occupied by established players like Kevin Diks, Yakob Sayuri, and Sandy Walsh.

Witan Sulaeman

Witan Sulaeman returns to the national team setup after a period of absence, last featuring during the era of former coach Shin Tae-yong. He has faced challenges competing for a starting spot at Persija, managing one goal and three assists in 15 Super League appearances this season.

Victor Dethan

Victor Dethan, a player for PSM Makassar, is not always a guaranteed starter, having played 19 times and scored two goals with one assist. He will compete for a spot on the right wing alongside players like Hokky Caraka, Egy Maulana Vikri, and Adrian Wibowo.

Mauro Zijlstra

Mauro Zijlstra has struggled to break into the first team at Persija, overshadowed by the performances of Gustavo Almeida and Maxwell. He has yet to make a significant contribution in his two Super League matches and is reportedly nursing a groin injury.

Elkan Baggott

Elkan Baggott is back in contention for the national team, having previously declined call-ups, including one for the U-23 Olympic play-offs, to focus on securing his position at Ipswich Town. He also missed a call-up during Patrick Kluivert’s tenure for similar reasons.

Cahya Supriadi

Cahya Supriadi has been impressive with PSIM Yogyakarta, making 22 appearances for Laskar Mataram. His inclusion is a surprise, as Teja Pakualam, who has been performing well with Persib Bandung, was not selected.

Herdman’s selections signal a willingness to consider a range of options as he begins to shape the squad ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures. The final 23-man roster will be closely watched as fans anticipate the direction of the national team under its recent leadership.