Egyptian shot stopper Essam El-Hadary has announced his retirement from international football.

The 45-year-old made the announcement on Monday evening .

He made his international debut in 1996 and has featured in 159 games for the Pharaohs.

Essam El-Hadary won four African Cup of Nations (AFCON) titles for the North Africans in 1999, 2006, 2008 and 2010 in addition to being named in the 23-man squad for the recently concluded FIFA World Cup tournament in Russia.

He made history at the mundial by becoming the oldest player in World Cup history after featuring in Egypt’s final Group A game against Saudi Arabia.

The former Zamalek, Sion and Wadi Degla goalkeeper also became the oldest player to save a penalty after he denied the Saudis from the spot.

His international retirement doesn’t disturb his club football having just returned back to Egyptian giants Ismaily for a third spell earlier this summer.