Ledley King announces retirment

Tottenham defender Ledley King has announced his retirement from professional football.

The former England international has had a career filled with highs and lows due to injury problems.

The 31-year-old lifted the Carling Cup in 2008 and helped Spurs achieve Champions League qualification

But King’s problems with injuries saw his appearances limited in recent seasons.

Chairman Daniel Levy proudly spoke of the contribution that King has given at White Hart Lane.

“Ledley has made a magnificent contribution to this club – as a wonderful player, captain and ambassador,” Levy told the clubs official website.

“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, while providing such fine leadership.”

King made 323 appearances for Tottenham but conceded on Thursday that his troubles with injury had swayed his decision on retirement.

“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,” he said.

“I know that being a one-club man is a rarity these days, but I have always enjoyed being part of the set-up here and the challenge of putting this club up with the elite where it should be.

“I would like to say thank you to everyone at the club and to the fans. 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. Sadly my injuries and inability to train have now finally brought an end to my career.”