Tottenham Hotspur defender Ledley King announced his retirement after failing to recover from chronic knee injuries.

Spurs captain King made the announcement on Tottenham's official website. The 31-year-old, who spent his entire career at White Hart Lane, will remain with the club in an ambassadorial role.

King turned professional in July 1998 and made his senior debut, a year later in May 1999, against Liverpool at Anfield. He made 323 senior appearances for Spurs, scoring 14 goals.

King decided to call time on his career, after knee problems rendered it impossible for him to train. The central defender played much of last season, without taking part in training sessions. "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," King 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.

"I have been in Tottenham for around 17 years, having started at Spurs when I was 14. It is a second home for me and I am pleased that I can continue to work within the club and for the local community, especially after the devastation caused by the riots last year.

"I am already heavily involved with the work of Spurs Foundation and the new stadium scheme will be a major factor in the regeneration of the area, so I am delighted that I shall be part of that."

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy added: "Ledley has made a magnificent contribution to this club -- as a wonderful player, captain and ambassador. 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.

"It is in an ambassadorial capacity that Ledley will continue, playing a crucial role in supporting the club's work in the community and the ongoing regeneration of the Tottenham area, whilst also being a hugely positive role model for our younger players."