Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda has paid tribute to striker Jacob Mulenga who has announced his retirement from Chipolopolo duty.

Jacob,33 officially announced his decision not be be considered for Chipolopolo duty on Monday.

Speculation is Nyirenda was considering drafting the Chinese-based striker for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Group B doubleheader qualifier against Algeria at home September 2 and away September 5.

“He has done a great work for the nation and has represented us very well at home and abroad. He is a big beacon for Zambian football and very disciplined,” Nyirenda said.

“I have monitored his performance in China,it is unfortunate I will not have him in the future. We will just respect his decision it may be a loss but I want to applaud his decision. He is legend for the country.”

Jacob’s Chipolopolo career spans from 2004 when he made his senior debut and scored in a 1-0 home win over Togo in Lusaka.

His last Zambia match was in September, 2014 in a 2-1 away loss to Cape Verde.

Jacob has been at Chinese club Chinese side Shijiazhuang Ever Bright since 2015 after spending 10 years in Europe that has seen him play in France, Holland and Turkey.