Viduka still part of 2010 World Cup plans

March 28, 2008

Australia coach Pim Verbeek has confirmed that Mark Viduka remains part of his plans for the 2010 World Cup and that he intends to speak to the veteran striker next month.

The Newcastle United striker was not part of the Socceroos squad for their 0-0 draw with China in Kunming last Wednesday - a match in which they showed little attacking threat and were lucky to escape with a point after Middlesborough goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer saved an 87th minute penalty.

Viduka has not played for Australia since their 2007 Asian Cup exit to Japan in July, however he has yet to confirm if he is officially retired from international football.

Verbeek is naturally keen to add the experience of the former Leeds United and Celtic striker to help with Australia’s bid to reach the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals in South Africa, as they face a difficult task to qualify from a tough Asian qualifying section.

He is hoping to get Viduka on board for a block of World Cup qualifiers home and away in June that will decide whether the Socceroos progress to the final Asian qualifying phase for a place in South Africa in 2010.

“I’ve always said that Mark Viduka is on my list and I will be travelling to England to find out his ideas about the future for the Socceroos,” Verbeek told reporters here after returning from China on Friday.

“So far, he has not given me the idea that he’s not interested anymore, so I’m looking forward to meeting him and to speak with him and find out if he wants to be part of us.”

Australia also had to do without Premiership based duo Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell, who have both suffered a spate of recurring injuries.

Australia lead their qualification group with four points after last month’s 3-0 home win over Qatar and the draw in China.

The Socceroos’ next qualifier is against Iraq, scheduled for Brisbane on June 1.

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