Source: Telegraph
Newcastle reject Mark Viduka quitting English football to return to Australia
The 33-year-old Viduka had been linked with possible moves to Portsmouth, Fulham and West Ham after Newcastle's relegation from the Premier League at the end of last season in a bid to extend his career until next year's World Cup, but his agent Steve Kutner has ruled out another contract in Europe.
"I can confirm that Mark will not be seeking another contract in England or Europe and is coming home to Australia to live," Kutner said. "He's about to enter a new phase in his life and whether that includes playing again in Australia I am not sure.
"He's had a superb 11 years or so in the U.K. (with Celtic, Leeds, Middlesbrough and Newcastle) and he's made his mind up to now move on.
"Mark has other priorities now and wants to take his life in a different direction."
Australian media reports claim that Melbourne Victory and a new club Melbourne Heart —both in Viduka's home town — are interested in the striker but it is unknown if he will be keen to play in the A-League.
Viduka played the first of 43 internationals for Australia in 1994 and has scored 11 goals. He was Soccoeroos captain at the 2006 World Cup, the first time in 32 years Australia had qualified for the tournament.
In Germany, Australia lost to eventual champion Italy on a contentious late penalty in the second round. Australia has already qualified for next year's World Cup in South Africa.
