Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel says being a late bloomer has helped his career motivation.

The Dane made his international debut at 26, though is now regarded among the best keepers in the world. He reached a personal national team landmark last week against Switzerland. Schmeichel made super four saves in the 1-0 European Championships qualifying win.

And the Foxes favourite admits his late career recognition is now working in his favour. At 32 years of age, Schmeichel insists he's as ambitious and motivated as ever.

Now boasting 50 caps, he was quoted by Bold as saying, "It was a big motivating factor that I was not involved in the national team earlier in my career, but I am grateful to be part of it now and it makes me proud to play 50 games for my country - now I just hope for 50 more.

"If I don't last five years, then I will be disappointed."

Indeed, while not taking anything for granted, Schmeichel is adamant that thoughts of retirement are far into the future. The goalkeeper, who is in his eighth year with Leicester, is determined to make the most of a period in his career where he is now reaching his peak. After spells with the likes of Darlington and Bury, Schmeichel is grateful for his current status in the game.

He added: "You can't plan in football. Anything can happen. You can get hurt tomorrow and not have the opportunity to come back, so you have to be grateful every time you are teamed up with the national team.

"Every match I get in the Parken in front of such an audience, I am incredibly grateful for, because it happens so rarely. We must be proud of all the matches we can fight for the national team."

- updated 21/10