Australian striker Mark Viduka is in "great spirits" after finalising his move to Newcastle and is ready to give his all at the Asian Cup, coach Graham Arnold said Monday.

Viduka was on the verge of quitting international football earlier this month but was talked out of it by Arnold, who sees no reason why the 31-year-old cannot continue until the World Cup in 2010.

"It's one step at a time for Mark," Arnold said in response to AFP questions at Viduka's first training session here following his arrival to join the squad on Sunday.

"What we're concentrating on now is getting Mark fit for Oman (on July 8) and the tournament.

"If Mark's happy, on and off the field, he is a wonderful asset to any club and any team. Mark is very happy and relaxed now that he has done his transfer to Newcastle. He's in great spirits."

Viduka signed a two-year contract with English Premier League side Newcastle United this month and has been wrestling with the decision to quit international football since last year's World Cup.

He reportedly told friends he intended to withdraw from Australia's Asian Cup squad, feeling unable to offer the 100 percent commitment required.

The national coach spoke at length with him to get him to change his mind, and while he has not made clear his plans beyond the Asian Cup, Arnold believes he could play at the World Cup.

"It's still three years away and Mark Viduka is still young enough," said Arnold.

"He is 31 now and he's in the peak form of his career. If it is one of Mark's goals, personally I think he can do it."

Viduka is a key part of Arnold's tactics for the Asian Cup with his technical ability to hold the ball and play as a lone striker supported by a fast-moving midfield.

He is expected to be named Socceroos skipper for the tournament where Australia are in a tough group with Iraq, Oman and Thailand.

AFP