The 32-year-old has reported back for pre-season training with the Magpies and is already looking beyond the looming campaign.

It had been feared that Viduka would need surgery on an Achilles problem but a series of injections looks to have done the job instead. He could now be ready for the big kick-off next month.

Injuries badly disrupted his first season on Tyneside and he made just 21 starts, first under Sam Allardyce and then Kevin Keegan.

The Socceroos striker has everything crossed that it will be a different story this season.

He told the Evening Chronicle: “It probably didn’t go as well as I wanted in my first season, but sometimes things don’t work out the way you want them to.

“I’ve got this year left on my contract and then the option of another."

Viduka has also spoken of his pleasure at working with Keegan. He said: "Kevin is a very good manager to work for.

“He’s so positive and very knowledgeable about the game. It’s a pleasure to work with him and I’m looking forward to that for the new season.”