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Melbourne Victory may be tempted into making a play for Socceroos striker Mark Viduka after their worst fears were confirmed with Archie Thompson’s A-League grand final knee injury.
Thompson is facing a full knee reconstruction and up to 12 months on the sidelines after scans on Sunday confirmed he had ruptured the anterior cruciate and medial ligaments in his left knee.
The star striker’s knee buckled in a challenge early in the Victory’s penalty shootout loss to Sydney FC in the A-League grand final.
Now the spectre of how to replace Thompson is looming large, and it could well be in the form of 34-year-old Viduka.
On Friday, the ex-Socceroos skipper confirmed he was considering a playing comeback in the A-League, saying he was “in two minds” about whether to return to the game.
Thompson’s prolonged absence – certain to extend until midway through next A-League season – could open the way for the Victory to explore the possibility of Viduka joining his hometown club.
A guest stint or even injury replacement spot could be options, with Victory coach Ernie Merrick having known Viduka for many years.
Viduka has not played in more than 10 months after walking away from several European offers to spend time with his family after an injury-riddled last three seasons.
Viduka said any comeback would depend on whether he believed his body was capable of standing up to professional football again, as well as whether he could produce quality performances.
New A-League franchise Melbourne Heart have also spoken informally with the striker about the prospect of playing.
Thompson is likely to undergo surgery this week, and will consult doctors on Monday about his best options.
“I’m so disappointed,” Thompson said.
“Last night was such a big game for the club and the supporters and this year was going to be such a big year with the AFC Champions League and World Cup to come.
“But I’m going to come back bigger and stronger.
“What doesn’t kill you can only make you stronger.”
Young utility Mate Dugandzic replaces Thompson in the Victory’s 18-man squad to play Kawasaki Frontale in the Asian Champions League in Japan on Tuesday.
AAP gh/jds
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