Riedl forgives Okto’s absence from training

National coach Alfred Riedl says he has forgiven winger Oktovianus Maniani for leaving the training center several days ago.

Riedl said Okto was under pressure from his club, Sriwijaya FC, to leave the training center and play against Persipura last weekend.

“Okto said he was under heavy pressure from his club. So he chose to play safe. He thought of his future, his family, his son and his wife,” Riedl said Tuesday.

“It was understandable. I did not blame him, I just blame those who put him on the spot.”

Okto is currently regarded as the best winger in the Indonesian team.