Viduka To Retire?
By Tyne-Talk
April 9 2008
Mark Viduka claims he is still not fully fit despite putting the ball in the back of the next twice in almost as many weeks. The Australian International has also questioned whether or not to remain playing for the Socceroos after admitting he is feeling his age as the games continue to come thick and fast.
Australia have already began their World Cup Qualifiers and Viduka is torn between travelling the distance or retiring from international duty
He said:
"I'm not at my strongest yet but I'm working my way back to that. As you get older it's tougher to shake injuries off and I'm into my 30's now. When you're younger, you recover quicker, you can shake things off and you can play with the knocks. It doesn't affect you as much, but I'm not at that age anymore, so I just have to accept that and do the best I can."
Speaking of his current international commitments and his loyalty to his club he said:
"It's a really tough decision for me with Australia because I'm at the age where I have to look after my body and get the most out of it that I can.
I love meeting up with the guys and representing my country, but I want to play for Newcastle for as long as, and as often as, I can.
I want to be able to give 100 per cent to Newcastle. I might be able to pick and choose international games, but I'm having a chat with the coach at the weekend so we'll see what comes from that."
Viduka has made 37 International appearances throughout his career, 1 as a substitute and scored 6 goals. For Newcastle he has made 24 appearances, 7 as a substitute and scored 7 goals.
It was a questioning statement to which the article refers
IM MEMORY OF THE BEST CAPTAIN AND GREATEST MANAGER IN OUR HISTORY--RIP BILLY AND DON
2013 PREDICTION LEAGUE---5TH
The Eastenders of football.. Newcastle!