Football: Ace King's future in the spotlight.

LEDLEY KING'S international future is set to come under intense scrutiny following his withdrawal from the England squad to return to Tottenham.

It is understood the 28-year-old will discuss the matter with his advisors next week, with sources suggesting it is too early to say whether the centre-back will just concentrate on club football for the rest of his career.

King's form impressed England boss Fabio Capello but a chronic knee problem means he does not train between matches and his preparations are limited to observing set-plays with the squad on the eve of matches.

His international recall lasted around 40 hours before leaving London Colney while Capello's squad trained.

An FA spokesman said: "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.

"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 or participate in the friendly against Slovakia or the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine."

England midfielder Steven Gerrard still hopes King would be available if needed for the World Cup next year.

"Ability-wise Ledley King is certainly good enough to be in a World Cup squad," Gerrard said. "We're keeping our fingers crossed that when the World Cup squad is picked he is fit.

"Ledley is obviously very highly-thought of by the club and also by the country so it is no surprise that both want him fit and both want him available. He's a fantastic player."

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Tottenham crock Ledley King