Ledley King has admitted he could be risking his professional future in order to live out his World Cup dream for England.

The Spurs defender has struggled with ongoing knee problems for years, but came back during last season to help his club side break into the Premier League top four with some impressive displays.

His performances caught the eye of England boss Fabio Capello, who named the 29-year-old in his final 23-man World Cup squad for South Africa.

With Rio Ferdinand having been ruled out of the tournament through injury, it looks highly likely that King will cap an incredible six months by starting alongside John Terry in the England backline for their World Cup opener against the USA.

The World Cup 2010 odds make England third favourites for the tournament, and a solid defence will be key if they are to return home victorious.

However, King has admitted that he has to "savour each game" he plays as he does not know how much longer his knee will hold up for.

"A career is short and I'm trying to get as much out of it as I can," the Spurs defender said.

"No player can guarantee their fitness. What I can guarantee is that I will give 100 per cent and I'm ready to play if need be and I feel I can perform at the highest level."

The World Cup group betting makes England favourites to top their pool, but they can't afford to suffer any more injuries.

Meanwhile, King has been thankful to Harry Redknapp for helping him rebuild his career at Spurs, but the defender must be hopeful that the gaffer is still there when he returns from the World Cup 2010.

Redknapp has been hailed by Anfield hero Robbie Fowler as the perfect man to take over from Rafa Benitez at Liverpool and help the club battle for the Premier League title next season.