Wenger slams Viduka ban

ARSENE WENGER has criticised the Australian Soccer Association for their “ridiculous” decision to rule Mark Viduka out of Leeds’ game against Manchester United, Arsenal’s chief rivals for the Barclaycard Premiership title.

Leeds had insisted the striker was not fit enough to take part in Australia's midweek friendly in Venezuela.

However, the Australian soccer authorities invoked FIFA rules which have suspended Viduka from playing for Leeds at Old Trafford today.

Wenger believes that the ASA should have shown more understanding of Leeds' position and declared the "problem of Viduka is ridiculous."

"You don't expect a federation to suspend him, considering the situation of Leeds and the fact that it was a friendly. I think it's dreadful for Leeds," he said.

"It affects us indirectly but I don't consider that when I say what I think.

"Of course, it could be an advantage for us with Viduka playing, but I consider the direct effect on Leeds. They are in a special situation with their finances.

"Leeds can still win without Viduka, but, without speculating on the result, the Australian football federation could have said before a friendly 'we know you're in a difficult position, so we'll leave Viduka where he is.'"

Wenger believes that such cases of intransigence make it less likely that leading clubs will buy Australian players in the future.

"You wouldn't be encouraged to do that. Not only do you lose your players for the games, but for the travelling as well," he said.

"What happens to Viduka makes you think twice about it."