Van Marwijk on short mercy trip home

Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk has taken a short leave of absence to visit an gravely ill friend in the Netherlands.

The Dutchman left Australia's training camp in Antalya, Turkey on Thursday night to return to his native country.

His flight was delayed back into Budapest, where the Socceroos have relocated for a friendly against Hungary on Saturday night (Sunday morning AEST), meaning the 66-year-old missed the opening part of training at the Groupama Arena.

Assistant coach Mark van Bommel, who fulfilled media duties on behalf of van Marwijk - also his father-in-law - said he had the support of the team for the quick trip.

"It's for personal reasons," he said.

"It's a very sad thing with a friend so you have to respect that."