Patrick Kluivert looms as the next big obstacle to the Socceroos’ hopes of automatic World Cup qualification as the legendary Dutch striker nears a deal to become manager of Indonesia.
According to several European outlets, former Barcelona forward Kluivert is the frontrunner to replace Shin Taeyong, who was sacked by Indonesia on Monday.
The Indonesian FA indicated it wanted to have a replacement for Taeyong finalised by the end of this week.
If successful, Kluivert’s first outing as Indonesia boss would be a crucial qualifier against Australia in Sydney on March 20.
Kluivert has previous international coaching experience as an assistant with the Netherlands and as manager of Curacao.
The 48-year-old also had a brief stint working under Ange Postecoglou in 2010 with Brisbane Roar.
The Dutchman's last major coaching role was with Turkish club Adana Demirspor last year.
The Socceroos currently sit in second place - the final automatic qualification spot - in Group C with seven points from six games.
But Tony Popovic’s side can ill afford a slip-up.
Indonesia are one of four teams - the others being Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and China - locked on six points.
Kluivert’s prospective employers sit third due to their superior goal difference and have shown themselves to be a handy side over recent months.
Indonesia forced a draw with Australia last year that prompted Graham Arnold to step down as Socceroos boss.
As well as hosting Indonesia at Allianz Stadium in March, the Socceroos face an away trip to meet China.
