King can be one of World Cup 2010's best defenders, says Crouch

21/05/2010

Peter Crouch has backed Ledley King to be one of the stand-out defenders at World Cup 2010.

Both Tottenham players have made England boss Fabio Capello's provisional 30-man squad for this summer's tournament, but King's persistent injury worries mean he is not certain of being chosen for the final 23.

Despite these concerns, Crouch feels King is well worth the risk, adding that the centre-half may prove to be one of the best in his position on the international stage.

According to the Spurs striker, he is not alone in this view - Capello is also well aware of the impact the defender could have on World Cup 2010 and the pedigree he possesses.

"Without a doubt, the manager thinks it is worthwhile him coming and on his day when he is fit, there are not many as good as him," Crouch commented.

King is competing against John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, Matthew Upson, Jamie Carragher and Michael Dawson, his central defensive partner at Spurs, for a place at World Cup 2010.

Posted by Oliver Jakes