John Herdman Guarantees Calvin Verdonk Will Play Against Oman

Indonesia national team coach John Herdman has guaranteed that Lille player Calvin Verdonk will have the opportunity to feature in the upcoming match against Oman. Despite arriving late to the training camp, the defender is expected to be available for selection.

Managing Late Arrival and Fitness

Verdonk joined the national team’s training camp late during preparations for the June FIFA Matchday. While there were initial reports that he might not join the squad, he eventually integrated with the team during the final training session.

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, Verdonk participated in the official training session at the Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK) in Jakarta. However, he conducted his training separately, accompanied by the team’s physiotherapists.

Did You Know? Calvin Verdonk missed the start of the international window due to personal reasons, leading to reports that he might not join the squad before eventually arriving for the final training sessions.

Strategic Integration for FIFA Matchday

The Indonesian squad is scheduled to face Oman on June 5 and Mozambique on June 9, both matches taking place at the SUGBK in Jakarta. Coach Herdman has assured that Verdonk will be involved in the proceedings despite the timing of his arrival.

“Calvin Verdonk has just arrived. He is fit. For personal reasons, he could not come at the start of the international window,” Herdman stated on Thursday.

Regarding his role in the match, Herdman noted, “But he will be ready to play tomorrow in some parts. He might be a starter, or we might put him in during the match. We must always think about his preparation and ensure that everything we do is to keep him safe; player safety is always the priority.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that Herdman’s cautious approach to Verdonk’s playing time highlights a critical balance between tactical necessity and medical prudence. By utilizing physiotherapists for separate training, the staff is likely attempting to mitigate the risks associated with a sudden increase in intensity after a late arrival.

Commitment and Professionalism

Herdman praised Verdonk’s dedication to the national team, describing him as a highly professional player. The coach emphasized that the effort required to reach Jakarta under difficult circumstances reflects the player’s devotion.

“So I hope we can give him some minutes of play tomorrow, whether as a starter or from the bench,” Herdman added. “But he is an extraordinary player as you know, and he did everything he could to get here. He faced several challenges and that shows his commitment and his love for this team.”

Given the current status, Verdonk could potentially start the match or be introduced as a substitute, depending on the coach’s final assessment of his readiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the upcoming matches for the Indonesia national team?

The team will face Oman on June 5 and Mozambique on June 9, with both games held at the Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK) in Jakarta.

Momen Calvin Verdonk Gabung Latihan Timnas Indonesia Asuhan John Herdman, Marselino Ferdinan Pisah

Why did Calvin Verdonk arrive late to the training camp?

According to coach John Herdman, Verdonk was unable to arrive at the start of the international window due to personal reasons.

Will Calvin Verdonk start in the match against Oman?

Coach John Herdman stated that Verdonk may become a starter or be introduced during the match, as the primary focus remains on player safety and proper preparation.

Do you believe a late arrival will impact a player’s chemistry with the rest of the squad during a FIFA Matchday?