Canada in World Cup qualifying: Breaking down Herdman's roster
John Herdman faces some interesting team selection decisions ahead of Canada's games against Costa Rica and Mexico.
After some time off, the Canadian men’s team returns to action this month in Concacaf World Cup qualifying.
This is a shortened international window that will see Canada only play twice (as opposed to the three games it played in September and October), as the Reds get set to host Costa Rica (Nov. 12) and Mexico (Nov. 16) at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium. Coach John Herdman has named a 23-man squad, relying on virtually the same group of players he used for last month’s trio of games that saw Canada earn draws away to Mexico and Jamaica, and a valuable home win over Panama.
There are some notable roster changes, though. Returning into the fold are No. 1 goalkeeper Milan Borjan, veteran midfielder Atiba Hutchinson, forward Cyle Larin and Lucas Cavallini of the Vancouver Whitecaps. Midfielder Scott Arfield still hasn’t earned a recall - his last match for Canada was on Nov. 15, 2019 - while winger Junior Hoilett and defender Scott Kennedy remain unavailable because of injuries.
Toronto FC winger Jacob Shaffelburg didn't crack the roster this time after being included in last month's squad. Midfielder Liam Fraser (Columbus Crew), FC Eindhoven attacker Charles-Andreas Brym, and CF Montreal fullback Zachary Brault-Guillard were also not included this month.
Here's a breakdown of Herdman's roster....
