And now the Newcasle striker has to decide if he wants to continue his international career, and there is no doubt what Big Sam wants him to do.
Viduka Unsure About Future!
However, new national coach Pim Verbeek is determined to get Viduka involved in the qualifying games ... at least.
He says he has made contact with most of the European-based Socceroos, but his skipper is yet to give a firm indication whether he'll play on towards the 2010 World Cup.
He says he has made contact with most of the European-based Socceroos, but his skipper is yet to give a firm indication whether he'll play on towards the 2010 World Cup.
The Socceroos' opening World Cup qualifier against Qatar at Melbourne's Telstra Dome is on February 6. And what with four African players away on international duty in January and February, Allardyce can well do without Viduka flying to the other side of the world.
Verbeek: "He says he is struggling a little bit from the last Asian Cup - he is the only one still considering what he is going to do February 6.
"If he can be part of that - maybe not all 14 games - then I am thinking of taking him. He is a very dangerous striker and I will try to convince him it is necessary."