The 32-year-old Australian ended the last campaign on the treatment table with a persistent Achilles problem, which he hopes will not ultimately require surgery. But before he succumbed, he had teamed up with Michael Owen and Obafemi Martins in a three-pronged strike-force that did much to drag the Magpies away from the fight for Barclays Premier League survival.

The trio claimed 11 goals between them in seven matches as Newcastle finally halted their winless run under new manager Kevin Keegan to increase optimism for the new campaign.

Managing director Derek Llambias and executive director (football) Dennis Wise and his team are currently working to implement Keegan's summer recruitment plans in an effort to ensure the club return to the upper reaches of the league table and once again challenge for European qualification and silverware.

something special

Viduka, who experienced European football during his time at Celtic, Leeds United and Middlesbrough, would love to do so again in a black and white shirt as he enters the latter stages of his career.

He said: "I have had great European nights in my career, but I would love to go back there with Newcastle.

"To be involved in European games at St James' Park would be something special. I would love to play in front of the crowd here in Europe because the fans are so passionate.

"It would really be something for me. I would love it to happen and that will be the aim - to get back in there next season."