Viduka's not for sale, insists Southgate
Thursday, 29 June 2006 16:07Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed that striker Mark Viduka is not for sale.
The 30-year-old Australian has hinted that he may consider his international future following the Socceroos' elimination from the World Cup finals.
However, amid speculation that Boro may allow him to leave the Riverside Stadium, Southgate has insisted he remains a key part of his plans.
He told the club's official website, www.mfc.co.uk: "The reports about Mark being available are utter rubbish. He is a big part of my plans for next season and beyond.
'I don't need to tell anyone how important he is to our team. He is enjoying a well-deserved rest now following the World Cup, but I look forward to welcoming Mark back to Rockliffe Park in July.'
Boro have already had to warn Portsmouth off making any bid for Aiyegbeni Yakubu. who left Fratton Park for the north-east just 12 months ago.
With Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink out of contract and unlikely to remain at the Riverside, Southgate knows the remaining pair represent his main goal threat for next season with record signing Massimo Maccarone and youngster Danny Graham in reserve.
Meanwhile, another of the youngsters who emerged from the Academy set-up under Southgate's predecessor Steve McClaren has committed his future to the club.
Exciting winger Adam Johnson has put pen to paper on a new four-year deal which will keep him at the Riverside until 2010.
Southgate said: 'I'm pleased that we've managed to ensure Adam will stay with us for at least the next four years. He has shown already, when playing for the reserves and the first team, that he's got great potential.
'Now it's for us to try to develop that potential and for Adam to display the desire that will enable him to push on and become a regular first team player.'
