FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard has announced his retirement from football aged 38.
Lindegaard has been capped five times by Denmark, but was not included in the squad for the World Cup.
The ex-United stopper has not played for the national team since 2011.
Ex-Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel will start for Denmark in Qatar, while Hertha Berlin goalie Oliver Christensen is also in the initial 21-man squad, which will be increased to 26 this weekend.
In an emotional statement on Instagram, Lindegaard said he was “grateful for all the memories” from his near 20-year career as a pro.
He officially joined the Red Devils in January 2011 before leaving in the summer of 2015.
As well as the Red Devils, Lindegaard also had spells with Preston, Burnley and West Brom.
He most recently played for Helsingborgs in the Swedish first division.
Part of his statement said: “After 20 years of professional football I’ve decided to retire. I’m humble and grateful for everything it has given me.
“Football has shown me the world and given me experiences I could only ever dream of.
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“I look back at my career with great proudness and gratitude and I thank everyone who’s been there for me and everyone I’ve met and worked with in the beautiful game.
“Players, managers, coaches, staff, fans – I’m grateful for all the memories.”
Lindegaard admitted he had been preparing to hang up his boots for “many years”.
He added: “As anyone else retiring from their ‘dream job’ would. I think the most important thing is to accept the premise and reflect upon it.
“I’m privileged to have picked the moment myself. I’ve prepared for this day for many years and I feel ready. I’m looking forward to start a new chapter in my life.”
In total Lindegaard played 29 times for the Red Devils, winning two Premier League titles.
