Viduka may need summer op
Newcastle striker Mark Viduka is set to miss out on Australia's World Cup qualifiers over the summer because of an Achilles problem.
The 32-year-old, who has been a major part of the recovery inspired by new boss Kevin Keegan in recent weeks, has been playing with an injury which it is understood could require surgery at the end of the campaign.
Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek said: "Nobody can do the same as Mark Viduka. I have seen enough games in England and Europe - he is special. You don't see players like him very often. He is so important for the team he is playing at."
He added: "We don't have players like that. With all respect for Scott (McDonald), Josh (Kennedy), Archie Thompson and John Aloisi, if we can use him, we will use him; if he is ready, he will come.
"We have some players who can do a great job also, but if we get a chance to use Mark, we will do it."
He is expected to be available for the club's final two Barclays Premier League fixtures, against Chelsea on Monday and Everton on the final day of the season.
