Tottenham captain Ledley King admits he uses Aston Villa legend Paul McGrath as inspiration.

King suffers similar problems with his knees that McGrath endured during his career.

England defender King said: "A lot has been said about Paul McGrath. He suffered knee problems and still managed to perform at a high level.

"He was someone that was mentioned a lot with me, somebody I looked at and I read his book.

"I picked up things on how his mind worked and what things to look out for along the line.

"There are times when you do doubt yourself because you're not training and don't have the same sharpness. At any one time that can show up but you have to stay strong in your head and believe that you can still perform.

"I never spoke directly to him, but I read his book and about his other problems too."