International career goes pear-shaped for unlucky Ledley

Ledley King's international career appears to have been effectively ended this week when he returned to Spurs Lodge from England's training camp. He will play no further part in Fabio Capello's preparations for Saturday's friendly with Slovakia or the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine next week.

The move, taken with the full agreement of both the England and Tottenham coaching staff, brings a predictable end to a bizarre 48 hours.

Capello sprang a major surprise on Sunday when he picked King in his 24-man squad, given the defender is unable to train due to a chronic knee condition.

Although King joined up with the England squad on Monday night, Spurs boss Harry Redknapp soon questioned the wisdom of such a move, confirming if the 28-year-old featured against Ukraine he could not be considered for club duty against Blackburn on April 4.

"I said if Ledley played against Ukraine next Wednesday, there is no way he would be able to play for us the following Saturday," said Redknapp. "I explained that, but they have gone and picked him anyway. I can't see it myself, it's mad. It's pointless at best."

King was on the team bus that went to training at Arsenal's London Colney complex, but returned to the England base in Watford. Then, a couple of hours later, came confirmation of King's departure.

"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," said a statement released by the FA.

"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."

Spurs winger Aaron Lennon is also in Capello's squad and is likely to feature against Slovakia.

pat.mooney@hamhigh.co.uk

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