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Viduka will be back

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2 July 2009 | 18:39 - SBS EXCLUSIVE

Eyeing a return ... Mark Viduka in one of his last appearances for the Socceroos back in 2007 (Getty)

The vexed question all Australian football fans have been asking has been answered with confirmation that Mark Viduka will play for Australia at the 2010 FIFA World Cup after all.


The big striker's agent, Englishman Steve Kutner, has revealed that the now former Newcastle United man is poised to switch from the relegated Magpies to a Premier League club, with the sole purpose of ''playing for Australia at the 2010 World Cup''.

Kutner, who had lengthy talks with a holidaying Viduka on Wednesday night, told The World Game: "It's not a question of if Mark wants to play for Australia at the World Cup, it's a matter of he will play at the World Cup.

''His reason in continuing to play on at the top level in England is to make sure he's there in South Africa. He's feeling fit again and he's hungry.

''He’s mulling over a couple of offers from two very good sides and a final decision will be made when he returns (from Croatia) in a week or so.

"I have to keep quiet on who they are for obvious reasons but the offers are there in front of us and an official announcement will be made soon.

"He's feeling relaxed and happy and he can't wait to get going again."

Kutner, whose client list includes England star Frank Lampard, insisted Viduka's problematic Achilles, which limited him to just eight games for the Toon last season - without a goal - was now a thing of the past.

"Physically he's fine, and has been keeping himself in shape while he's been away. So, yes, he's in great shape,” he added.

"He wouldn't be looking to play on if he wasn't and I can assure you, he will only play on in the Premiership."

Viduka, who turns 34 in October, led Australia at the 2006 World Cup and also at the 2007 Asian Cup. But he hasn't played for Australia since and speculation was mounting that he would not be seen again in the green and gold.

Now, it appears a second coming is imminent, possibly as early as the August 12 friendly with the Republic of Ireland in Limerick.

"I'm sure it (his comeback) will be good news for Australia because everybody knows how important he is to his country," added Kutner.

"Mark just has to do the business on the pitch now. And, judging by how well he finished the season at Newcastle, I am sure he will."

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