Viduka blow for Magpies

Aussie set for Achilles surgery

Last updated: 8th May 2008

Mark Viduka Newcastle

Viduka: Laid low

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Newcastle striker Mark Viduka faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.

The former Leeds and Celtic hit-man has been struggling with a niggling Achilles problem and the club have now decided to send him under the knife.

Surgery is set to sideline Viduka for between three and six months and means he will miss Australia's four World Cup qualifiers in June.

The injury could also see Viduka miss the start of next season if Newcastle's worst fears are confirmed and the big forward is sidelined for six months.

Magpies boss Kevin Keegan confirmed Viduka will be out of action for a substantial period.

"Mark Viduka could be out for between three to six months so that's a blow for us," Keegan told Sky Sports News.

"We will know more in two weeks.

"Mark has done a great for us so that is a blow. If it is three months it won't be a major blow."