No more surgery for Viduka

Striker aiming to play for Australia again once he is fully fit

Last updated: 14th October 2008

No more surgery for Viduka

Viduka: No more surgery

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Newcastle United have confirmed that Mark Viduka will not require a second operation on his Achilles.

Viduka has not played for the Magpies this season after undergoing surgery on an Achilles problem over the summer.

Recent reports have suggested the striker could need to go under the knife again, which would lead to an absence of a further six months.

He has travelled back to Australia for a second opinion on his injury and was accompanied on the trip by Newcastle physio James Murphy.

"Surgery is not considered necessary," said Murphy.

Australia aim

Meanwhile, Viduka has outlined his intention to play a part in Australia's bid to qualify for the 2010 World Cup, once he is back to full fitness.

Viduka said: "Of course I want to play for Australia again - it's something that's never out of my mind.

"But it's a step-by-step process and the first stage is to get back playing for my club again.

"I've got to be 100% fit and 100% sure in my mind that my heel is strong enough. When that happens I'll be back for Australia."