The combative 34-year-old, who has been one of the mainstays of Ahli squad since joining in 2001, will remain with the Red Devils until 2013.

His previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season.

"Gomaa has signed a new two-year contract today," Ahli football director Hadi Khashaba said on the club's official website.

"Ahli's technical staff wanted to secure the future of Gomaa to maintain stability within the team.

"We faced no problems in extending the deal of Gomaa because he is one of our most important players.

"His discipline on and off the pitch and his displays have been terrific during his stay with the club."

Gomaa joined Ahli from Ghazl Mahalla nine years ago and went on to become one of the backbones of a hugely successful team which won a string of domestic and continental competitions.

His consistent, brave and relentless displays in the heart of Ahli's defense earn him widespread praise.

He also excelled with the Egyptian national team, playing a key role in their three successive African Cup of Nations triumphs in 2006, 2008 and 2010 through keeping some high-profile strikers at bay.

Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o, Ivory Coast's Didier Drogba and Ghana's Gyan Asamoah were among his victims.

No Retirement

Recent reports suggested that Gomaa was considering hanging up his boots after the end of this season but he insists his hunger for football is as voracious as ever.

"I'm very happy to have prolonged my Ahli stay. I have a very strong bond with this club," the bald-headed defender said.

"I was very surprised when I read the reports which said that I would retire from football, this is totally untrue.

"I will remain with Ahli as long as my legs carry me," he concluded.