Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has paid tribute to the career of teammate Ledley King, who announced his retirement from football today.

The 31-year-old has decided to call it a day following a 17-year career at White Hart Lane, which included a Carling Cup victory in 2008 and qualification to the Champions League in the 2010-11 season.

Van der Vaart wrote on Twitter: "Sorry to hear Ledley King has to retire from Spurs due to an injury. A great player and a true Spurs club man!"

Meanwhile, Van der Vaart has calmed speculation over his own future with the North London club by claiming that he intends to honour his contract.