LEDLEY King's season is over after a decision was taken to give the Spurs defender time to recover from a long-standing knee injury.

The problem has restricted the 27-year-old to just ten matches this season.

And, with only six games left to play and Spurs sitting comfortably in 11th position, the club believe it would be more beneficial to prepare the influential centre-back for next season.

"My knee is actually feeling good at the moment and there is no inflammation," said King.

"But we have to look at the bigger picture and accept that this is an ideal point in time to recover further and make sure that I come back fitter.

"They are six games I could well have taken part in, but we all believe this is worth doing for the longer term benefit."