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Joe Mewis

Former Leeds United favourite Mark Viduka signs up for Riverside Stadium coronavirus charity match

Former Leeds United striker Mark Viduka will return to these shores for a charity match at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium.

Ex-Boro striker Mikkel Beck has been the driving force in organising the clash which will raise funds for people affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Viduka left Leeds for Middlesbrough in 2004 following the Whites' relegation from the Premier League. The Australian was a firm fan favourite during his four-year spell at Elland Road, netting 72 goals in 166 appearances, with his four-goal haul against Liverpool one of the highlights of what was a thrilling era for the club.

Leeds fans won't have far to travel if they want a glimpse of him in action, with the match hoping to take place at some point next season to tie in with the 25th anniversary of the Riverside Stadium.

The match will pit a team of players from Bryan Robson's mid-90s Boro side against a stars from Steve McClaren team that won the 2004 League Cup and reached the 2006 UEFA Cup final.

Joining Viduka for the match will be his ex-Boro teammate Gaizka Mendieta, a player he faced in Leeds United's 2001 Champions League semi-final against Valencia.

Aitor Karanka will play in the match, with the likes of Juninho, Fabrizio Ravanelli and Bolo Zenden also turning out.

Viduka retired aged 33 and has now begun a new career back in Zagreb as a coffee shop owner.

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