England defender Ledley King believes he can last the distance at this years World Cup despite training alone. King is now at the forefront of the England back four along with John Terry and he believes he can step up and replace the injured Rio Ferdinand. The Tottenham man faces a 7 match run should England go all the way in the tournament, a far cry from the 2 games a week schedule of last season but he believes he won’t have any problems.
“I’d like to believe so. The medical team we have here, the facilities out here are second to none so I believe with the right help and support I can definitely do that. It’s going well. The medical team, the manager, everyone here has allowed me to do what I normally do and I couldn’t ask for any more than that. I think I have shown this season I can play quick games in succession. Monday to Saturday shouldn’t be a problem for me, so however (many) minutes I may get then I believe I will be ready if needed on Saturday.”
King also spoke about training on his own and admitted he found it difficult not to push himself too hard to stay fit.
“I’ve done it for the last few years now. It’s new for me with England and at times difficult not to try push myself into doing too much, but the main thing for me is to try and stay fit. I have to be strong and stick to what I’ve been doing to make sure I am fit and available for games.”
Capello will have a tough choice to make knowing King’s problems. Should he choose King to partner Terry at the back for England they will need to have a quick understanding of each other, something King feels will not be an issue.
“I’ve known John for a long time, he’s a great communicator on the pitch and that’s what you need. He’s an experienced player – as am I – I wouldn’t see a problem if needed. As a player, a professional, you always prepare to play. I’ve always done that. You never know what’s round the corner. I’ve been in the game long enough to know that at any moment in time an injury can occur and you could be called upon. It’s happened in 2004 with me and it’s happened with Rio this time. I prepare to play as normal. It is difficult (to form a partnership). We’re not going to have much time to do it with me training once or twice a week but it is important. The communication is key, that’s something you have to do as a partnership, and I believe if that’s good then within the back four you have a good chance.”
King also added that injured Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand will stay with the squad to give his support to the players.
