Aston Villa and Irish legend Paul McGrath says Tottenham defender Ledley King should be allowed to train when he wants.

The ex-Manchester United defender had numerous knee operations and like the Tottenham captain, rarely trained between matches.

He said: "I had a very understanding physio at Villa in Jim Walker. In my time there I had a few different managers and it had to be explained to them that I couldn't do a lot of the training systems they had.

"It worked out a treat for me. I'd go in and do a little bit of bike work for 20 minutes, have a bath and then head home.

"Because of the way Jim explained it, telling them they had to leave me to my own devices during the week but I'd be OK for Saturday, it was OK.

"I've seen Ledley play a few times this season and he gives his all on the pitch. He's a magnificent player, he's not afraid to tackle and reads the game brilliantly.

"If it means he doesn't have to train as hard or as regularly as the other lads, then if I was Harry Redknapp I'd be happy with that but the international call-up would have caused some friction between club and country.

"I almost joined West Ham when Harry was there so he knew my situation...he knew I couldn't train too much. I think he'll give Ledley the benefit of the doubt and in return Ledley will give him everything he has.

"I just hope he keeps playing for a long time because I love watching good defenders and Ledley is a grand footballer."