Belgium's Courtois considering retirement from international duty after World Cup

The 34-year-old, who earned his first of 109 caps in 2011, indicated that it might be time to hand over the responsibility after the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

“I am not sure if we should discuss the future at this moment, but it is more likely that I will not continue after this tournament than that I will,” he told journalists at the Belgian team base.

“I still want to play for a few more years.

“Then you have to look after your body. My family is here because this could be my last tournament.”

But the Real Madrid goalkeeper also suggested he might be convinced to carry on.

“If we have a good World Cup, of course. And if the positive atmosphere within the group continues. Afterwards, I will need to have an internal discussion with the coach, (technical director) Vincent Mannaert, and the doctors.”

Courtois said that under former coach Domenico Tedesco he was permitted to skip some international breaks, and that reinforced his thinking.

“I noticed that during those international breaks you can rest and work quietly in the gym,” he said.

“Moreover, over the past year and a half, I have had more minor physical issues and injuries, so you naturally think more about what lies ahead.

“I am considering passing the baton. There is a lot of talent emerging with Senne (Lammers) and Mike (Penders).”

Courtois said he was eager to play against Egypt on Monday.

“Yes, I am very hungry, just like the rest of the group. I feel very good and am looking forward to it.

“I also worked very hard on my comeback during the spring. The (quadriceps) injury was unfortunate because at that moment I felt almost unbeatable. But I am ready to maintain my level now and stay focused,” he added.

Belgium will also face Iran and New Zealand in the group stage.