Ahly striker Emad Meteb, who is currently on loan to Saudi side Al-Taawoun, has shown interest in joining the Egyptian national team for his first appearance at the World Cup since 1990.

"I am focusing on my current team at the moment. My target is to join the national team. It will be a very great honor to play at the 2018 World Cup," the 35-year-old forward told an Egyptian radio station Thursday morning.

Under the helm of coach Hector Cuper, who abandoned the former key player Meteb, Egypt have made it to the 2018 World Cup, drawn in group A with hosts Russia alongside Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.

"It's normal to hope to return back to my club Ahly. I would be very happy. We will see at the end of the season," he expressed.

Meteb commented on Ahly's winter transfers, welcoming back longtime teammate skipper Hossam Ghaly after he ended a spell with Saudi Al-Nassr to sign a 6-month contract with Ahly.

"Ghaly is a great leader. He gave a fine performance with Al-Nassr and returned to his home. I wish him all the best," Meteb commented.

He also praised new signing of Salah Mohsen, who said that Meteb is of his idols.

"Mohsen is an outstanding and powerful player and will be a great addition to Ahly," Meteb added.

The three-time African Cup of Nations winner, Meteb, will be playing at the new club alongside fellow countryman and veteran keeper Essam El-Hadary, as well as talented winger Mostafa Fathi.

Al-Taawoun currently lie seventh in the Saudi league table with 24 points from 18 matches, 15 behind leaders Al-Hilal.

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