Vidosic set to miss Asian Cup

Desperate for game time after starting just one Bundesliga match for mid-table Nurnberg this season – with three more appearances off the bench – Vidosic is likely to be given a leave pass from Qatar next month by Socceroos coach Holger Osieck as he bids to revive his club's fading fortunes.

In a further blow to Australia's chances of hoisting the continental trophy next month, a back problem is likely to rule towering striker Josh Kennedy out of the tournament with Archie Thompson also sidelined for at least the next month with a hamstring injury.

Vidosic, who has 12 caps for his country but didn’t play a minute at last June’s World Cup finals, will remain with Arminia, which finished seventh in 2. Bundesliga last season, until the end of the campaign.

“I'm in a bit of a battle at the moment,” Vidosic told The World Game. “At this stage it looks like I may have to miss out on the Asian Cup, which is something that happens in football.

“The timing isn’t perfect, I am in the process of switching cubs and it’s not an easy situation.

“Arminia is a big club which is struggling right now and I hope I can do something to help it change its fortunes. I want to be playing regularly and this is a chance for me to do that.

“I’ve heard good things about them. They are strengthening their squad and I am looking forward to playing in pressure situations week in week out.”

Vidosic spent the second half of last season on loan at DSV Duisberg and has made 29 appearances for Nurnberg since signing for the club in 2007 and his witch to Arminia could turn out to be a permanent move should player and club agree to terms.

Arminia sits bottom of 2 Bundesliga with just seven points from eight games, with Vidosic adding: “It’s tough times there but I am sure it can, and will, bounce back. This will be a great learning process for me.”