Kewell's Anfield career comes to an end

The seemingly inevitable became a reality for Harry Kewell when Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez confirmed the Socceroos midfielder would be leaving Anfield.

Five years and only 139 games after the injury-ravaged winger was signed by Gerard Houllier on a massive STG5 million ($A10.4 million) transfer from Leeds, Kewell's time as a Reds player will come to an end this weekend.

Benitez hinted that Kewell, who has not played for Liverpool since the 2-1 FA Cup exit to Barnsley on February 16, turned down an offer to stay at the club on reduced wages.

"We have tried to come to an agreement with the player and his agent, but that has not been possible," Benitez said.

"Kewell will leave the club at the end of his contract."

Kewell scored 11 goals in his first season, before Benitez took over in 2004, but a horror run of injuries, including serious groin, knee, thigh, ankle and foot problems devastated his stay at the famous club. He only scored five goals in the next four years, playing just 18 games in the past two seasons.

The Fairfield, Sydney product is unlikely to be given the chance of a swansong at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in Liverpool's last game of the Premier League season.

Despite Kewell's injury history, a number of clubs are believed to be interested, including Italian giants Juventus and England's relegation-threatened Fulham.

Kewell's agent Bernie Mandic said there were a number of options being considered.

"I'm in talks with several clubs but at this stage I'm playing my cards close to my chest," Mandic told News Ltd.

"Harry's never been happier or fitter and at this stage he's very much looking forward to heading home and playing a role for the Socceroos in the friendly against Ghana and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

"But as far as his next move, our official line is a simple no comment. Watch this space."

Meanwhile, Australian striker Mark Viduka will be sidelined for between three and six months with an Achilles injury.

Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek had already ruled the former national captain out of the four World Cup qualifiers in June and now Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan is eager to learn whether the 32-year-old will be fit to start next season.

"Mark Viduka could be out for three to six months," Keegan said, adding he hoped to learn more over the next fortnight.

"That's a blow for us but we'll see.

"We'll know more in two weeks and will inform you then. Mark's done great for us so that's a blow."

The Australian also suffered hamstring, calf and ankle injuries this season.