Rafael van der Vaart hails retired Ledley King

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has paid tribute to the career of teammate Ledley King, who announced his retirement from football today.

The 31-year-old has decided to call it a day following a 17-year career at White Hart Lane, which included a Carling Cup victory in 2008 and qualification to the Champions League in the 2010-11 season.

Van der Vaart wrote on Twitter: "Sorry to hear Ledley King has to retire from Spurs due to an injury. A great player and a true Spurs club man!"

Meanwhile, Van der Vaart has calmed speculation over his own future with the North London club by claiming that he intends to honour his contract.