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Viduka tired of 'tough' talk

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20 June 2006 | 19:49 - PA Sport

Mark Viduka has condemned the critics who have labelled Australia as over-aggressive.

 

The Socceroos rattled Netherlands with their physical approach during a warm-up game in which Luke Wilkshire was sent off.

They have retained the committed philosophy since their arrival in Germany but were angered by the number of free-kicks awarded against them in Sunday's defeat to Brazil by top German referee Markus Merk.

Harry Kewell allowed his frustration to get the better of him after the final whistle as he launched a volley of abuse at Merk, which landed him with a FIFA charge.

Viduka was equally displeased with Merk's performance, although at least the Middlesbrough man opted to keep his opinions private.

However, the Australian skipper does believe there is a mis-conception about the way his side play which is getting them into trouble.

"I think this talk of us being a physical side is a bit of a cliche," he said. "We are a tough team but then so are many others. It's just that people are making a big deal of it as far as we are concerned."

"The game was not a dirty one but it seems when we go for our tackles we are being too rough. When the opposition does the same, nothing happens."

Viduka faces an emotional evening on Thursday when he leads Australia into battle against Croatia knowing a point will be enough to seal a place in the last 16.

Both Viduka's parents were born in Croatia, he speaks the language fluently and the 30-year-old's European career began with the three-year stint in the country at the famous Zagreb club following a direct summons to negotiations with former president Franjo Tudjman.

In fact, given Viduka made his international debut in 1994 when Australia remained in the footballing wilderness and Croatia were just starting to emerge as a major force, there are many who wondered why he chose to play for his native country at all.

The answer is clear.

Viduka's name may belie his origins but the Melbourne-born star is Australian to the core.

"I suppose it is a natural thing to ask why I am not playing for Croatia but why would I? I am Australian through and through," he said.

"Thursday's game will be special for me. But it will be special because a draw will get us through to the next round not because of my background and the fact it is against Croatia."

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