Mark Viduka says the pride of wearing the Australian shirt was behind his last-minute decision to play in the Asian Cup, insisting that there was no pressure from new club Newcastle to miss the tournament.
The 31-year-old, preparing with the Socceroos in Singapore ahead of their first match on July 8, shelved international retirement plans at the 11th hour because playing for his country meant too much.
"Initially I was in two minds. I didn't know whether to retire or not and I mentioned it to Arnie [coach Graham Arnold] and I said it looks like I will go that way," Viduka told Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper. "Then the next two days I had a good think about it and I just felt it meant too much for me to play for Australia and just to give it away like that."
PHOTO: AFP
"I made the decision myself," he said.
Viduka arrived in Singapore on Sunday after completing his move to Newcastle from Middlesbrough and taking a holiday in Croatia.
He told the paper there was no pressure from Newcastle to miss the tournament to remain fresh for the new Premier League season, adding he was looking forward to playing with new teammate Michael Owen.
"I'm not sure if he's staying. I've been on holidays but what's happening at Newcastle is exciting. We've got new owners and it looks very promising," Viduka said.
Viduka is a key part of Arnold's tactics for the Asian Cup with his ability to hold the ball and play as a lone striker supported by a fast-moving midfield.
Now he is with the squad he is feeling relaxed and quietly confident that Australia can win the Asian Cup at their first attempt.
"We have a good chance. I don't want to be too cocky but we're quietly confident," he said.
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