Vince Grella and Lucas Neill were the other two players in line for the job, particularly after Viduka contemplated retiring from international football.

Graham Arnold is expected to start with a full-strength side when Australia takes on Singapore although Tim Cahill and John Aloisi are unlikely to take part. Cahill is still gaining full fitness after his injury lay-off, while Aloisi has been given extra time off following his extended season in Spain.