Essam El-Hadary is determined to keep on playing after the 2018 World Cup in Russia and hopes he could take part in the following Mundial in Qatar.

El-Hadary is set to become the oldest player to ever appear in the prestigious tournament after Egypt secured their qualification to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years following a 2-1 victory over Congo last month.

The veteran Egyptian goalkeeper stated his confidence in the national team ahead of the World Cup draw in December and expressed his desire to continue his journey after the competition.

“There is harmony between the coaching staff and the players at the national team now. This squad has what it takes to achieve great things in the coming World Cup,” El-Hadary said in a televised interview.

“We are not going to the World Cup just to participate, we are ambitious on how far we can go and we believe we are ready to face any team.”

The 44-year-old, who joined joined Saudi Arabian side Al Taawoun during the summer transfer window, praised the Saudi Pro League, and mentioned he would rather not face Saudi Arabia or any other Arab nation in the competition.

For the first time in history, four Arab nations have qualified to the World Cup, namely Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Morocco.

“I hope we don’t get to face Saudi Arabia in the World Cup, I actually hope none of the Arab nations get to face each other at the World Cup.”

The former Al Ahly keeper, who made his international debut in 1996, believes he still can play for four mores years.

“I think I might retire in four years, I believe I can keep playing until the 2022 World Cup,” El-Hadary added.