Viduka rejects Socceroos

May 30th, 2009 | By: Pat | 3 Comments »

Embattled striker Mark Viduka has turned his back on the Socceroos for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Qatar, Bahrain and Japan. After being given an option by Pim Verbeek to decide whether he should walk into the squad, the big striker has decided against joining up with his team mates for the crucial matches.

Claiming that he needed a break after his tumultuous season with relegated Newcastle, Viduka has not close the door entirely on his Socceroos future, a view which is shared by Verbeek. The World Game quotes Verbeek as saying that the decision is Viduka’s, and that there will always be a spot open for him to return.

The Socceroos’ next game is on June 7 against Qatar, with us needing a draw or better to confirm our spots at South Africa.

Tags: Group F, Mark Viduka, Pim Verbeek, Socceroos, Team News, World Cup Qualifying

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Comments

By Marcus | June 1st, 2009 at 5:59 am

I have a question
if he decides he is ready to play for Australia if we qualify for the WC should he be given the spot?

By Pat | June 1st, 2009 at 7:19 am

Yeah I know, that’s a bit of a sticking point with me as well. I reckon he can’t just walk into the team, it’s totally unfair on a lot of the other guys who have been working their asses off trying to crack into the squad. But apparently Pim thinks otherwise and that’s all that matters…

By Mr J | June 2nd, 2009 at 10:57 pm

I think everyone is being a bit harsh on ‘Dukes. He’s had a really tough season. He played in 6 whole games this season (all off the bench)! And didn’t score any goals.
Can’t the guy rest up after such a hectic season?

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