Australia's Vidmar ruled out of World Cup

SYDNEY, May 9 (Reuters) Experienced Australia defender Tony Vidmar has lost his battle to get fit for next month's World Cup, Football Federation Australia (FFA) said today.

Vidmar, who plays for Dutch club NAC Breda, suffered a rib injury last season and further tests revealed an irregular heart beat.

''It's something that has come as a real shock but due to the seriousness of the situation I had no other choice in the interests of my own health and the team but withdraw from being considered for the World Cup squad,'' Vidmar said in an FFA statement.

''Of course I would love to play in the World Cup, it's been a dream of mine and I have been in four campaigns but until I am fully aware of my health situation I can't risk playing.'' Vidmar, 35, made his international debut in 1991 and has played 75 times for his country.

He has also played for English Premier League side Middlesbrough and spent five years with Scottish club Rangers.

REUTERS AY VC1038