Gary Rowett Eyes Growth as Oxford United Head to Indonesia for Pre-Season Challenge
Let’s talk about something a bit out of the ordinary in the world of English football – Oxford United are packing their bags for a pre-season trip halfway across the world, to Indonesia. Yes, you heard that right. Under the guidance of their manager Gary Rowett, the club is embarking on an exciting and culturally rich adventure, as they prepare to take part in the six-team President’s Cup. It’s not just about fitness and friendlies – this is about stepping into a whole new footballing world.
Gary Rowett, who took the reins at Oxford United back in December, is genuinely intrigued by what lies ahead. Speaking to BBC Radio Oxford, he described the trip as "interesting" – and for good reason. The squad will not only face tough opponents like a Liga Indonesia All-Stars team and Arema FC, a top-tier local club, but they’ll also contend with a completely different climate, intense humidity, and passionate Southeast Asian fans. Their first clash kicks off on July 6 at the iconic national stadium in Jakarta.
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What’s even more exciting is that Oxford's squad features two Indonesian internationals – Marselino Ferdinan and Ole Romeny – whose presence is sure to spark extra interest among the local crowd. For them, it’s more than a friendly tournament. It’s a homecoming on a global stage, and it could turn into a real moment of pride, both for the players and the fans.
Rowett is mindful of the balancing act that pre-season brings. While he’s eager to strengthen the squad and foster cohesion, he’s also open about the reality that some players may be left behind – a hint at upcoming transfers as the club fine-tunes its lineup for the upcoming Championship season, which begins August 9 at home against Portsmouth.
But above all, this tour is a chance to break the mold. Rowett sees it as an opportunity for the team to experience football through a different cultural lens – to learn, to grow, and to adapt. It's about building more than just match sharpness; it's about building character and unity. And let's face it, trips like these can be game-changing, not just in terms of preparation, but in the spirit and mindset they cultivate.
For the fans back home, coverage will be thorough – with BBC Radio Oxford and the Oxford Mail set to report from the ground, offering interviews, live blogs, and daily updates. So whether you’re tuning in from Oxford or Jakarta, this pre-season promises to be one to watch.
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