John Herdman Implements Acceleration Strategy, Kevin Diks Mentors Mathew Baker

Our economic fundamentals are robust across all fronts, with government spending, public expenditure, controlled inflation, and strong investment. Indonesia national team coach John Herdman has outlined a strategic approach to developing young talent for the Garuda squad. The 17-year-old promising player Mathew Baker is receiving specialised mentoring from experienced defender Kevin Diks during the senior national team’s training camp. The decision comes ahead of two crucial FIFA Match Day fixtures against Oman on Friday (5 June) and Mozambique on Tuesday (9 June) at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta. Baker’s inclusion in the senior squad for the first time is part of the English coach’s long-term vision. Herdman believes Kevin Diks is the ideal mentor for Baker, given their shared defensive roles and Diks’ experience in Germany’s top-tier Bundesliga, which adds significant value. “Kevin Diks is mentoring him this week so he can learn from a Bundesliga player with international experience,” Herdman said during an interview at the Gelora Bung Karno Secondary Stadium on Monday (2 June). This season with Borussia Mönchengladbach, Diks has delivered impressive performances, making 30 appearances and scoring five goals. His contributions helped the German club finish 12th in the league with 38 points. Baker’s call-up is not without reason. Herdman has implemented what he calls an ‘acceleration strategy’, aiming to fast-track the maturity of young players by exposing them to senior-level competition earlier. Herdman referenced his success with Canada, where he gave Jonathan David and Liam Millar their debuts at 18. David is now a star at Juventus in Italy after a successful stint with Lille in France. “For Mathew, this will be an unforgettable experience. When he sees the intensity of training here, he can carry those standards back to the youth setup and establish new benchmarks there,” Herdman added. While praising Baker’s attitude and adaptation to senior level, Herdman cautioned that the young player’s journey is still long. His current focus is ensuring Baker absorbs the high standards currently in place with the national team. It is hoped that through Kevin Diks’ mentorship and exposure to international atmosphere at SUGBK, Mathew Baker will become a future defensive pillar for Indonesia, following in the footsteps of players previously nurtured by Herdman. (Ant/Z-1)