King clinging to Euro dream

The England coach took a gamble on the injury-prone defender for the 2010 World Cup and saw that decision backfire.

King has not represented his country since managing just 45 minutes against the United States in South Africa.

His ongoing struggles with a chronic knee problem mean he finds it difficult to play more than once a week and severely limits his ability to train.

King is refusing to call time on his international career, though, and believes he can still make next summer's European Championship.

"I haven't given up," he said.

"It's in the back of my mind but it's getting further and further away."

Bond

King made only nine appearances for Spurs last season but has managed seven already this term.

His importance to the cause is summed up by the fact they have taken 19 out of a possible 21 Premier League points when he has featured.

But he accepts his inability to train and the difficulties he has playing twice a week could ultimately scupper his Euro 2012 ambitions.

"I realise, going to the World Cup, how difficult it can be for a person in my position who doesn't train," he said.

"Going away with England you really need time on the pitch, you need to gel and bond as a group.

"It's difficult for me to do that and, to be fair to the manager, (general manager) Franco Baldini and the other staff were great to let me do what I've been doing at Tottenham.

"But it's a lot easier here where I know everyone and everyone understands. It's a difficult situation."