Carrick: Ledley was King

Michael Carrick has paid tribute to former team-mate Ledley King ahead of Manchester United’s clash with Tottenham, after the Spurs legend retired from professional football in July.

King, 31, had struggled with injuries for a number of years and was unable to train on a daily basis, forcing the England international to reluctantly hang up his boots and adopt an ambassadorial role at White Hart Lane.

Having worked alongside King throughout his two years at Tottenham before signing for United in 2006, Carrick is all too aware of the defender’s quality when at the peak of his powers and was understandably disappointed to see his friend walk away from the game at such an early age.

“I was sad to see Ledley King call it a day in the summer,” Michael told ManUtd.com.

“It's such a shame because he was a huge talent and one of the best around on his day. He was influential in the dressing room, too."