Ledley King signs contract extension at Tottenham

Tottenham captain Ledley King has signed a contract extension at White Hart Lane until 2012.

Despite a persistent knee problem, the 29-year-old has impressed at the heart of Spurs' defence this season.

His form not only helped the north London club qualify for the Champions League but also earned him a call-up to England's provisional World Cup squad.

"I have been here since I was a schoolboy and I could never see myself going anywhere else," said King.

A knee complaint has dogged King throughout his career, however, by restricting his training regime to swimming and gym work, Spurs were able to field the defender 21 times this season.

And King is looking forward to more appearances next term - particularly in Europe.

606: DEBATE This could be the start of something great happening at our club, we wouldn't want The King to miss out. LedleysTheKing

"We've got the prospect of Champions League football to look forward to next season and with the quality of players we have I believe we are on the brink of something big," added King.

"It is an exciting time for the club with a new training ground being built and plans for a new stadium.

"I am enjoying my football and I want to be a part of what is happening here."

King, who has won 19 England caps, missed out on a place in the 2006 World Cup squad because of a broken foot.

But his chances of being selected for Capello's squad for South Africa, which will be trimmed down to 23 players by 1 June, have been boosted because of doubts over the fitness of first-choice central defender Rio Ferdinand of Manchester United, as well as the absence of the injured Everton's Joleon Lescott and United's Wes Brown.