TEHRANTIMES - Former Iran national football team captain Javad Nekounam could come out of retirement to return to Team Melli squad according to reports in the Iranian media.

The 35-year old midfielder, who is currently playing for Iranian side Saipa, has officially announced his retirement from international football in March 2015 after surpassing Ali Daei’s record of most capped Iranian player.

It has been rumored that Iran coach Carlos Queiroz is considering a return for former Osasuna midfielder due to his experience and leading attitudes on the pitch. They have reportedly met each other and discussed a possible return for Neku.

Nekounam spent most of his professional career with Pas and Spain's Osasuna, appearing in 197 official games and scoring 31 goals during his two spells with the latter and also being team captain.

He has represented the Iranian national team 151 times, playing several major tournaments including two World Cups and four Asian Cups.