Indonesia could have a World Cup squad like that of coach John Herdman.
Coach John Herdman, a leading candidate for the Indonesian national team's head coach position, may bring along his trusted team that helped Canada qualify for the 2022 World Cup, including top experts in tactics, goalkeeping, and psychology.
Coach John Herdman is currently the leading candidate to manage the Indonesian national team. If appointed by the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI), the English strategist will likely bring with him a team of experienced assistants, many of whom helped him make history with the Canadian national team.
However, PSSI also stipulated that, in addition to international assistants, the coaching staff needed to include local experts to ensure integration and understanding of the local football culture. Below are some key figures who could follow Herdman to Indonesia.
The assistant framework has been proven effective.
According to British media, the team that Herdman trusts consists of people who have been with him for many years, from the Canadian national team to Toronto FC in the MLS. They are important pieces of his philosophy and working methods.
Simon Eaddy: Goalkeeper Coaching Specialist
Simon Eaddy is one of Coach Herdman's longest-standing and most trusted associates. Their partnership began when they worked together on the Canadian women's national team. When Herdman moved to coach the men's national team in 2018, Eaddy was also promoted and became an indispensable part of the coaching staff.
Over the course of five years, Eaddy played a crucial role in helping Canada qualify for the 2022 World Cup. Even after Herdman left for Toronto FC, Eaddy was retained as an assistant, demonstrating the trust placed in his expertise.
Eric Tellado: The tactical "brain" from the Barcelona academy.
Eric Tellado is considered Herdman's tactical "right-hand man." The two began working together in 2019 on the Canadian national team. Tellado holds a dual role: assistant coach and tactical analyst.
With a background in Barcelona's youth academy (2009-2016) and a UEFA Pro license, Tellado brings a modern tactical mindset. His expertise is highly regarded and is a key factor in implementing the playing style of the teams managed by Herdman.
Robin Gayle: Psychology and Performance Expert
A notable addition to Herdman's team is Robin Gayle, a former Canadian women's national team player. She is responsible for player psychology and performance enhancement. Gayle's role includes building team culture, overseeing individual development plans, and fostering a competitive and cohesive environment.
She worked alongside Herdman on both the Canadian women's and men's national teams, and later with Toronto FC. Her experience at the highest level and her expertise in psychology made Gayle a unique and highly influential figure.
Alex Dodgshon: Competitor Analyst
Alex Dodgshon is a data analyst and scouting specialist who began collaborating with Herdman in 2021. He is credited with making a quiet but crucial contribution to Canada's success in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers by providing detailed reports on opponents.
Although Dodgshon has now taken on a new job at Lakeland United FC in the US, his close relationship and trust with manager Herdman still make him a potential candidate if an attractive offer is made.
