Crocked King dropped by England | inside World Soccer

Crocked King dropped by England

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Ledley King's international recall lasted around 40 hours after the Tottenham Hotspur defender returned to his club on Tuesday.

King did not take part in Tuesday's training session due to an ongoing injury that prevents him from training with Spurs.

After a near two-year absence from international football, the 28-year-old was a surprise inclusion in Fabio Capello's England squad for Saturday's friendly with Slovakia and next week's World Cup qualifier against Ukraine at Wembley.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was upset with the call-up because if King played against Ukraine he could not be considered for club duty against Blackburn Rovers three days later.

The Spurs captain is restricted to playing just one match a week for his club due to his chronic knee problem.

The Football Association issued a statement on Monday evening to reassure Spurs that no risks would be taken with King.

An FA statement read: "Ledley King has returned to Spurs Lodge to continue his rehabilitation over the course of the international break, following discussions and assessments overnight by the medical staff of both the club and the England national team.

"It has been agreed by both parties that the best interests of the player are served by continuing his individual training programme at the club and he will play no further part in England's preparations or participate in the friendly against Slovakia or the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine."

However, midfielder Steven Gerrard still hopes King would be available for next year's World Cup in South Africa if the Three Lions qualifiers.

He said: "Ability-wise Ledley King is certainly good enough to be in a World Cup squad.

"We're keeping our fingers crossed that when the World Cup squad is picked he is fit and available for selection.

"It tells you how good he is that he doesn't need to train. When he is out there playing he is top drawer. I've been fortunate to play with him for England and when he is fit and available he is as good as anyone out there."

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