CRISIS English Premier League club Newcastle United admit they have no idea when Socceroos striker Mark Viduka will be fully recovered from injury and ready for action again.
The V-Bomber has still to kick a ball in anger this season due to an achilles problem.
No operation was required and it was thought Viduka would be ready to make an impact sooner rather than later into the campaign.
However, coach Chris Hughton won't be drawn on just when Newcastle (and Australia) can expect him back.
He told the Shields Gazette: "At the moment, he's in his rehab, and there isn't a timescale.
"With Mark, we're aware he has an Achilles problem, and what we are looking to do is step up his training, and hopefully have no adverse affect from that. That being the case, hopefully the progress will be a little bit quicker.
"Equally, it's frustrating for him. He's a lad that wants to play, wants to be part of things and wants to help."
No operation was required and it was thought Viduka would be ready to make an impact sooner rather than later into the campaign.
However, coach Chris Hughton won't be drawn on just when Newcastle (and Australia) can expect him back.
He told the Shields Gazette: "At the moment, he's in his rehab, and there isn't a timescale.
"With Mark, we're aware he has an Achilles problem, and what we are looking to do is step up his training, and hopefully have no adverse affect from that. That being the case, hopefully the progress will be a little bit quicker.
"Equally, it's frustrating for him. He's a lad that wants to play, wants to be part of things and wants to help."
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