TONY Vidmar has flown out to begin preparations for Australia's World Cup play-off expressing his intention to ask for a transfer should the Socceroos secure a place in next year's festival in the Far East.
The versatile 31-year-old has grown increasingly frustrated by his lack of involvement at Ibrox, and gave the broadest indication yet that he will seek a move before his contract expires at the end of the season.
Vidmar has started only six league matches so far this season and last appeared as a substitute in the 3-0 victory against Airdrie in the CIS Insurance Cup last month. His last start was against Motherwell on September 16.
He signed on a Bosman deal from Dutch side Breda in 1997 and has proved to be a useful player during his stay, without holding down a regular place. Now, though, with Australia on the brink of making the World Cup finals in Korea and Japan, he is preparing to find pastures new in order to preserve a place in Frank Farina's squad.
''I want to be playing. I can't wait six or seven months for a Bosman because I need to be playing before the World Cup,'' he said before departing along with club-mate Craig Moore. ''I would be prepared to go anywhere. It was part of my tour, my adventure, to come to Europe to play for Rangers.
''I think it is a big squad and maybe the manager has to cut back on some players, so I don't think he will stand in my way.''
Indeed, with Michael Ball, a recent (pounds) 6.5m signing, waiting patiently for his chance, it appears that Vidmar only will be called upon in an emergency.
He is able to negotiate with prospective buyers from new year's day, but the likelihood is that Rangers will allow him to move on for a nominal fee, if not a free transfer.
The weekend match with France represents an ideal opportunity to impress and if Vidmar can contribute to a successful play-off double-header against the fifth-best team in the South American group, then he should not be short of offers from abroad.
A move to England, where compatriots Mark Schwarzer, Mark Viduka, and Harry Kewell have enjoyed fame, would be his favoured destination.
Vidmar and Moore will miss the home league match against Dunfermline a week on Saturday, the UEFA Cup tie against Paris St-Germain, and the visit to Parkhead three days later.
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