EFL side snap up Indonesian wonderkid with astonishing FOUR MILLION followers on Instagram… 3.8m more than club itself
OXFORD have signed an Indonesian wonderkid with an astonishing four million Instagram followers.
Marselino Ferdinan even boasts 3.8million more fans on the platform than his new club.
The 19-year-old midfielder completed a free transfer to the U’s on Monday, penning a two-year deal with the Championship side.
He joins from Belgian club Deinze and could make his debut against Blackburn on Saturday.
If he does, he will become the first Indonesian-born player to feature in the second tier of English football.
As well as arriving with 23 international caps to his name, Ferdinan also has a massive social media following.
The teenager, who has scored three times for Indonesia, boasts four million followers on Instagram.
In contrast, Oxford’s official club account has just 175,000 on the photo-sharing site.
Speaking after his move was confirmed, Ferdinan told Oxford’s club website: “I’m thrilled and still can’t believe I’m here.
“Being the first Indonesian-born player to play in the Championship if selected fills me with immense pride. I won’t take this opportunity for granted, and I’ll give 100% to make the most of it.
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“My message to everyone is to keep supporting the team and know that I’ll do my best to compete and represent this club.”
Des Buckingham’s side have made a solid start to the new season following promotion from League One last term.
After an opening victory against Norwich, Oxford were narrowly beaten by Coventry on Friday to leave them eighth in the table.
A trip to Ewood Park to face Blackburn on Saturday will present Ferdinan with the first opportunity to make his debut.
He is now one of three Indonesian players in England’s top four league.
The midfielder joins Wolves defender Justin Hubner and Elkan Baggott of League One Blackpool.
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