Middlesbrough player Mark Viduka has a future at the Riverside Stadium insists manager Gareth Southgate. His performance says Southgate against Sheffield United on New Year's days showed why he wanted him to stay at the club.
Viduka's current deal expires at the end of the season, but Southgate is keen to agree an extension as soon as possible. Having watched the Australian international inspire his side to a 3–1 win against the Blades, Southgate insisted he is keen to retain his services.
"He's been terrific, he's a class act. His hold–up play is so important, he brings people into it. And he is a leader at the club as well," said Viduka. "Mark has as much ability as any striker I played with. He has made a massive difference to us in this period since he came back into the side. There is a misconception about him that people have because of the way he runs and the way he moves. But not everybody can tear around the field for 90 minutes and those who do possibly aren't as effective. I appreciate what he gives us on and off the field. I have enjoyed my time working with him as both a player and a manager. I want that to continue beyond the end of this season."
Middlesbrough player Mark Viduka has a future at the Riverside Stadium insists manager Gareth Southgate. His performance says Southgate against Sheffield United on New Year's days showed why he wanted him to stay at the club.