Oxford United midfielder Marselino Ferdinan is set to be unavailable for the club as he links up with the Indonesia national team for the ASEAN Championship.
The 19-year-old, who has yet to make his debut for Oxford since signing in August, will represent his country in the month-long Southeast Asian tournament.
Indonesia’s Long Campaign Ahead
Indonesia is drawn in Group B of the ASEAN Championship, where they will face Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The group stage runs over three weeks, with the final scheduled for January 5. Despite carrying a minor hamstring injury, Ferdinan has travelled to join his national squad, highlighting his commitment to his country.
Oxford United head coach Des Buckingham commented on the situation:
“Marselino goes off to an age group competition for Indonesia, so he’ll be over in Asia. It’s the longest competition I’ve ever heard of. He leaves to travel and won’t rejoin us until at the moment, we’re expecting after the end of December.”
Frustrating Start at Oxford
Ferdinan, who joined Oxford on a free transfer in August, has yet to feature for the U’s first team. He has been named an unused substitute in four of the last five games but missed the recent draw with Millwall due to a minor hamstring issue.
The Indonesian starlet made headlines last month with a match-winning performance for Indonesia in a World Cup qualifier, scoring two goals against Saudi Arabia. His impressive international record contrasts with his slow start at Oxford, where fans are eager to see him in action.
From Indonesia to Europe
Ferdinan began his career with Persebaya in his native Indonesia before moving to Belgian second-tier side KMSK Deinze. He left the Belgian club over the summer and joined Oxford, seeking to further his development in European football. While his debut at the Kassam Stadium is still pending, his performances on the international stage underline his potential.
Writer’s View
Marselino Ferdinan’s absence from Oxford United highlights the complexities of balancing club and international commitments for emerging talents. While his departure comes at a time when the U’s could use more depth, his exposure at the ASEAN Championship offers valuable experience that could benefit both player and club in the long run. For Oxford fans, patience may well be rewarded as Ferdinan builds on his international achievements and works toward breaking into the first team.
