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Spurs skipper King retires

Image: Ledley King: Spurs skipper has retired from football due to injury

Tottenham captain Ledley King has announced his retirement from football because of injury.

England defender admits defeat in battle against long-term injury

Tottenham captain Ledley King has announced his retirement from football because of injury. King has battled with a long-term knee problem for many years, with the defender unable to take part in full training. The 31-year-old England international still managed to play more than 300 games for Spurs since making his debut in 1999. But the problem has restricted King to just 21 Premier League appearances in the past two seasons and he has finally succumbed to early retirement. King, who played 21 times for England between 2002 and 2010, will continue his involvement with Spurs as a club ambassador in recognition of his contribution at White Hart Lane.

Supportive

"I have missed a lot of football over the years, but the Spurs fans have always been patient and incredibly supportive with me during difficult periods," said King. "Sadly my injuries and inability to train have now finally brought an end to my career. "I have been here since I was a boy. I have always considered it my club and have always found it hard to imagine wearing the shirt of another team. "I pleased that I can continue to work within the club and for the local community. "It is a second home for me and I am pleased that I can continue to work within the club and for the local community, especially after the devastation caused by the riots last year. "I am already heavily involved with the work of Spurs Foundation and the new stadium scheme will be a major factor in the regeneration of the area, so I am delighted that I shall be part of that."
Ambassador
Club chairman Daniel Levy was quick to pay tribute to King. "Ledley has made a magnificent contribution to this club - as a wonderful player, captain and ambassador," said Levy. "It has been well documented how he has battled against injury over the years and it is testament to the character of the man how he managed to sustain such high standards of performance on the pitch. "It is in an ambassadorial capacity that Ledley will continue, playing a crucial role in supporting the club's work in the community and the ongoing regeneration of the Tottenham area, whilst also being a hugely positive role model for our younger players. Tottenham also announced they will host a testimonial match in King's honour at the end of the season, with the opposition to be determined at a later date. "It will undoubtedly be a special night at the Lane," Levy added. "The chance for fans and team-mates to pay tribute to our longest serving, not to mention one of the most gifted players in the history of the club."

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