Tottenham Hotspur manager Andre Villas-Boas has suggested that defender Ledley King is close to hanging up his boots.

The 31-year-old, who has come to the end of his current contract, has been plagued with injuries throughout his career, which has affected the number of games and training sessions in which the centre-back can participate.

"I spoke to him on Tuesday and there are still discussions regarding what is the best step," said Villas-Boas.

"It is very unfair for me to extend myself because Ledley has a tremendous past as a footballer and it is up to him to share with you what his decision is."

King managed to feature for Spurs just 23 times last season.