'Door still open' for Viduka's international career

Australia manager Pim Verbeek has said that that the door is still open for Mark Viduka to return to the international set-up.

Verbeek said: "I tried everything to get him last June, but he said he first wanted to think about his career. As far as I know he hasn't signed for any other club, but still the door is always open, not just for Viduka but for other players too.

"We have 10 months to go before the World Cup and if Viduka can get back to that level, then of course he is a fantastic player who would be liable for selection.

Verbeek, who was speaking at his side's training session today ahead of their friendly against the Republic of Ireland at Thomond Park tomorrow, also said that he still has to assess his players' fitness before he picks his starting 11 against Ireland.

He explained that five of his players, including Scott McDonald, Harry Kewell and Tim Cahill, had only arrived yesterday from their clubs after playing in Europe so he had to check on their fitness.

He said: "We haven't seen them on the field yet, but I will protect my players as I feel responsible for them."