Leeds fury as Aussies keep Viduka out of Utd clash

AUSTRALIA "don't deserve" Mark Viduka after the "insensitive" decision to ban the striker from playing against Manchester United this weekend, according to Leeds chief executive Trevor Birch.

The Australian Soccer Association have invoked a FIFA ruling which allows them to prevent the striker playing for his club for five days following his failure to report for international duty.

Viduka was called up for Wednesday night's friendly with Venezuela in Caracas but withdrew from the squad, citing a hamstring injury sustained in last week's win over Wolves. The player has also only recently returned from Australia after travelling home to visit his ill father. Birch is furious with the situation.

"What's happened is an absolute disgrace. It's an outrage," said Birch.

"The survival of Leeds United is in jeopardy and we have this, all for the sake of a Mickey Mouse game that took place at the other side of the world. Where is the justice in that?

"Mark has given a lot to Australia and I can honestly say, there is no one more loyal towards the cause than Mark, yet they do this to him.

"I would understand it if he told them where to stick international football now. They don't deserve someone like him."

Leeds, who are battling against relegation from the premiership and face a crucial trip to Old Trafford tomorrow, have threatened legal action.

A club statement read: "This decision has shown a complete lack of understanding and compassion towards Mark, whose father Joe is still critically ill over in Australia and to Leeds United Football Club who, given Mark's personal circumstances, had no hesitation in granting him unlimited compassionate leave.

"Furthermore, having not trained for three weeks whilst in Australia, Mark complained upon returning to Leeds of pain in his lower back and tightness in his hamstrings.

"Leeds United Football Club and Mark Viduka have, following his selection for this game, been open and honest with ASA and, given his loyalty to both club and country, it is difficult to understand why such a hard stance has been taken which does not appear consistent with that for those other players who, for whatever reasons, did not travel to Caracas.

"Leeds United Football Club is taking legal advice."

The ASA were unhappy with explanations given by Viduka and FC Basle's Scott Chipperfield for not travelling but found in favour of four other players, including Liverpool's Harry Kewell and Blackburn's Brett Emerton.