Socceroos striker Mark Viduka is set to return for Newcastle United in about two weeks.

Viduka has had an interrupted season due to a nagging Achilles injury, only managing six appearances for the Magpies, but could be back for the clash with Stoke City on April 11.

"He's still on rehab and he's still one that we're assessing," interim boss Chris Hughton told the Newcastle Evening Chronicle.

"We're hopeful he'll be back in two weeks - that is if he has no setbacks.

"Mark is one who - because of the type of player that he is - whatever period he'd back for, it will be a good thing.

"However quickly we can get him back, it's worth it because of the type of quality that he has.

"But we're also wary that it's a balancing act of being fit and being ready for the rigours of important games."