Australia's national soccer captain, Mark Viduka, is to end his European football career.
The striker's English Premier league side, Newcastle, were relegated at the end of last season.
The 33 year old had been linked with possible moves to Portsmouth, Fulham and West Ham in a bid to extend his career until next year's World Cup.
However his agent, Steve Kutner, says Viduka is returning to Australia.
Viduka's hometown clubs, Melbourne Victory and new franchise Melbourne Heart, are reportedly interested in the striker but it is not known if he will be keen to play in the A-League.
His decision to quit European football puts to bed any hopes of a return for the Socceroos in South Africa.
