"Today I officially announced my retirement from football," he wrote on his personal Twitter account.

"Thanks to everyone who supported me while playing, especially the great fans of Egypt."

Mido, only 30, has been without a club since being released by Barnsley in January due to persistent fitness problems related to his weight.

He indicated that he would hang up his boots should he fail to regain his fitness this summer, which seems to have prompted him to make the announcement.

Mido put an end to a 13-year footballing career, including 10 in Europe with the likes of Ajax, Tottenham, Roma and West Ham.

He played 50 times for Egypt, winning the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.