Captain King will carry on

Harry Redknapp today backed Ledley King to continue as Tottenham captain, even though he admitted the defender is still likely to miss several games this season.

King's ongoing knee problems mean he is doubtful for tomorrow night's derby against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium after the 28-year-old played two games in the space of four days, first in the UEFA Cup defeat by Udinese last Thursday and then in the win over Bolton on Sunday.

It was thought that King's inability to string a long run of games together could see him lose the captaincy, but Redknapp insisted he was keen for King to continue in the role.

Redknapp said: "For sure, when he is fit. He is a fantastic centre-half. He has strength, he is good in the air and on the ball, and he is an England-quality player.

"We have to nurse him along, and he can't play Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, so if he plays once a week, then that is what we will do. You have to chop and change, but we've got several options.

The new Spurs boss has already brought in his former Portsmouth coach Kevin Bond and he would like to add former White Hart Lane midfielder Tim Sherwood to his backroom staff.

Redknapp also discussed the possibility of bringing in two of the club's former England strikers, Teddy Sheringham and Les Ferdinand.

He added: "I would like to get Tim involved, as he is a real football person. Teddy is also someone who has something to offer.

"They are both good players who have a history with the club. Even someone like Les Ferdinand could come in and help the strikers."