Viduka boost for Magpies
07 Nov 2007 - 15:57:36
Newcastle United have been boosted in the build-up to Saturday's derby clash with Sunderland with the news that Mark Viduka is available for selection.
The Australia striker has missed the last four matches with a calf injury picked up in the 3-1 defeat at Manchester City in late September.
In Viduka's absence the Magpies have lost their last two Premier League fixtures, but manager Sam Allardyce has revealed the former Middlesbrough, Celtic and Leeds United frontman will play some part in the first Tyne-Wear derby of the season.
The 32-year-old has scored three times in six appearances since joining Newcastle on a free transfer in the summer.
"Mark has trained this week and is available for selection this weekend," Allardyce told the club's official website.
Meanwhile, Allardyce has vowed to take responsibility for the club's recent poor run which has led to speculation that he may be sacked less than six months after taking the helm at St James' Park.
The former Bolton boss came under fire after Saturday's 4-1 home defeat by Portsmouth - when the Magpies were three goals down inside the opening 11 minutes.
"The players have to accept responsibility but I have to accept responsibility more than anyone because I'm the manager," he added. "The buck stops with me.
"I have to tell the players what they're doing right and what they're doing wrong this week and make sure they're ready for Sunderland.
"I never expected to see what I saw against Portsmouth, that sort of thing shouldn't happen against Newcastle at St James' Park.
"I have to make sure the fans never see that sort of result and performance again."