In The Squad List

Verbeek's eyes shifted and he started calling out the team list for tomorrow's game. Even though Benjamin knew he had little chance of hearing his name, he felt his blood speed up in anticipation.

Given the fierce competition on the left wing and the fact that Benjamin only recently joined the team, he didn't anticipate making the starting lineup. He faced significant obstacles from people like Aron Johannsson and Steven Berghuis.

"For the starting eleven," Verbeek said in a forceful voice. "Alvarado will be in goal."

Benjamin turned to face the keeper, who nodded slightly and appeared to be just as intent as ever.

"Backline: Gorter, Reijnen, Viergever, and Marcellis."

Every defender responded to the name call; some merely nodded, while others clapped their hands together in anticipation. Tomorrow, they would have to be extremely strong to prevent Heracles from approaching Alvarado too closely.

"Midfield," Verbeek added, looking around the group. "Viktor Elm and Martens."

Martens nodded quickly to Elm, who acknowledged with a slight smile. Both of them had a lot of expertise and experience, and the team relied heavily on their dirty work in the middle of the park.

"Gudmundsson and Berghuis in the left and right wing." Both players smiled, clearly confident.

While he was new to the club, Berghuis showed the flair and inventiveness to break down a defense in a matter of seconds, while Gudmundsson's pace was lightning fast and he was also experienced.

Verbeek hesitated, his eyes straying to Overtoom. "Overtoom, central attacking midfielder."

Overtoom nodded, a little relieved that the manager had put him in the starting lineup. He had thought that after his mistake which cost them a goal in the last game against Ajax, he would be benched for the next game.

"And Altidore will be leading the attack." The American striker nodded with a smile.

Verbeek glanced at the other members of the team. "The substitutes are Aron Johannsson, Henriksen, and Beerens." He spoke calmly as he went through the list, "Mathias Johansson, Thomas Lam, Benjamin Rijkaard, and Adam Maher."

Benjamin breathed out slowly. He had at least made it to the bench, so there was a mix of relief and resolve. He was one step closer to experiencing actual Eredivisie play because he was a member of the squad.

The other players looked at one another, and several gave each other pats on the back. Adam gave Benjamin a short smile, obviously happy that they were both included in the strategy, even if it was just as substitutes.

After looking at each of them, Verbeek said, "Formation will be 4-2-3-1. That entails alertness, discipline, and structure both on and off the ball. You are aware of your roles, first eleven. And the substitutes, I want you all to be as concentrated as the starters. It takes a team to win a game."

The players all nodded together. Even though this was only the season's second game, every game mattered, and a good performance here may set the tone for the coming weeks.

Verbeek motioned for everyone to gather together." "Keep in mind that we play as a team. We maintain our composure, hit Heracles on our terms, and keep our heads up even though they may come at us hard."

Benjamin was filled with excitement. He was in the team's plans, which meant something even if he wasn't brought up to the field. All of his training hours and every obstacle he had to overcome were beginning to pay off.

Benjamin approached Adam, who was stretching by the sideline, as they emerged from the huddle. Grinning, he nudged Adam's shoulder and remarked, "Looks like we're in this together."

Adam rolled his shoulders back and laughed. "I suppose we'll just need to demonstrate our value when given the chance, huh?"

Benjamin nodded. Showing Verbeek and everyone else that he belonged here was more important than merely showing up.

The remainder of the practice was devoted to practicing offensive moves, defensive structures, and set plays. While the substitutes watched every move and prepared for possible outcomes in their minds, Verbeek had the starting eleven practicing everything from counterattacks to maintaining formation under duress.

Benjamin kept a careful eye on Altidore, assessing his timing and location. Benjamin wanted to have a thorough understanding of the striker's ability to convert a moment into a goal.

Verbeek's voice could be heard throughout the field as they practiced a last passing drill. "That concludes our day. Get enough sleep, eat healthily, and show up tomorrow with your best faces. At nine, we begin anew."

Benjamin sipped from his water bottle for a long time, allowing the cold to relieve his body's fatigue.

A constant anticipation had taken the place of the earlier excitement. He would be on the bench tomorrow, watching and waiting, prepared to take the field if called upon.

Adam walked with him as the players started to return to the dressing rooms. He inquired, "How do you feel about tomorrow?"

Benjamin thought for a moment. "I'm thrilled. I believe it's normal to feel a little anxious. You know, just hope I get a shot.

Adam nodded while wearing a contemplative expression." Indeed. I believe we're prepared. Verbeek wouldn't have us on the team if he didn't think we were good enough.

Adam was correct; Verbeek's confidence in them was demonstrated by their inclusion on the squad roster. They had earned their place here.

Verbeek glanced at Benjamin from the other side of the room as he was packing his bag. With a quick, reassuring gesture, the coach seemed to be telling him to stay prepared.

Even though it was a little gesture, it had great meaning for him. Verbeek didn't have to say anything because Benjamin could tell by the expression how much was expected of him.

He would rest tonight, give his body time to recover from fatigue, and maintain his composure. His plan was to prepare well for whatever came his way, and tomorrow might be his first opportunity to make a difference.