John Herdman Speaks About the Indonesia National Football Team Starting XI Lineup Filled With Diaspora Players

Indonesia National Team Head Coach John Herdman confirmed that fielding a starting XI composed of Diaspora Players does not alter the identity of the Garuda squad, as every player carries the name of Indonesia. This line-up was selected by Herdman for the 2-0 victory over Singapore in the Group A fixture of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, hosted at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta. 

Indonesia's starting eleven against Singapore featured Maarten Paes, Calvin Verdonk, Kevin Diks, Elkan Baggott, Justin Hubner, Dean James, Joey Pelupessy, Luke Vickery, Ragnar Oratmangoen, Ole Romeny and Mitchell Lee Baker.

After the match, Herdman received questions regarding the total absence of locally-born Indonesian players in the starting line-up. The 51-year-old coach stressed there is no distinction between local and diaspora players once they wear the Indonesia national team uniform.

"I believe there is no difference. There are no local players, there are no diaspora players. We are Indonesia. We represent the flag, we sing the national anthem, and we stand united at all times," stated Herdman.

For Herdman, Player Selection decisions are not based on place of birth. He instead prioritises the readiness and willingness of each player to give their absolute best when granted the chance to defend the Garuda squad.

According to the coach, all selected players must accept the responsibility that comes with being part of the national team. They are required to work hard from kickoff right until the final whistle blows.

This standard applies equally for diaspora and naturalised players. Herdman argued that the labels 'local' and 'diaspora' should never be used as dividing lines for players once they are part of the Indonesia squad.

"This is a group of players that want to represent this country. They travelled here, they are willing to put in the work, fight for every 50/50 ball, and play with passion, fire and heart for the supporters in this stadium," he emphasised.

Herdman noted that questioning a player's commitment would only be justified if their on-pitch performance showed lack of effort. For him, the primary measure is not a player's background, but the contribution they deliver while wearing the Garuda uniform.

"These men are Indonesians now. They are proud to play for you. It is only if they start avoiding tackles, if they stop running mid-match, that you have any reason to raise that question," he added.

This statement was issued following Indonesia's winning opening match of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. Ragnar Oratmangoen scored the opening goal in the 13th minute, before Ole Romeny doubled Indonesia's advantage via a 74th minute penalty.

This result gives Indonesia solid standing in Group A. The Garuda squad is now preparing to face Malaysia in their next fixture at SUGBK, Monday 28 September.

For Herdman, the upcoming match will be another chance for all players to demonstrate their contribution to Indonesia. While the team composition may change, the coach's message remains consistent: whoever wears the Garuda uniform carries the responsibility to fight together as one.