Timbers' Finn Surman stays home*

“If I’m not performing for my own club, I’m not going to be able to perform for my national team."

BEAVERTON — Finn Surman is finally feeling comfortable around Portland.

The 21-year-old New Zealander came to the Timbers last fall in a transfer with Wellington Phoenix, made one start in October against Seattle and has since found some rhythm in his first professional stint away from his home country.

He said his chemistry with his teammates is improving. He said he’s adjusting to a league with players who are bigger, faster and more assertive in their decisions. He said he’s figured out driving on the right side of the road.

“It’s pretty chill,” Surman said of his new home. “I think generally the people are quite nice, so that’s nice.”

With three starts under his belt here in 2025, the defender is still fighting to establish himself as a permanent fixture in Portland’s starting lineup. So no, New Zealand’s World Cup qualifying match next week is not exactly at the best time.

Surman’s made seven appearances with New Zealand in his senior career, including World Cup qualifying action last November. But Surman will not be a part of an All Whites roster that faces Fiji in the semi-final of the Oceania Qualifiers on March 21.

On Wednesday, Surman was asked about reportedly “rejecting” a call-up to the national team. He disagreed, saying all parties concluded that the timing just wasn’t right.