Paul Robinson gives insight into what kind of coach he thinks Ledley King will be

Former Tottenham goalkeeper, Paul Robinson has expressed his delight at Ledley King joining Jose Mourinho’s coaching staff in North London.

Mourinho revealed after Tottenham’s final game of the season against Crystal Palace last Sunday that the legendary Spurs defender will be joining his staff, replacing technical analyst Ricardo Formosinho (Sky Sports).

The 39-year-old has been a club ambassador since retiring from professional football in 2012 but looks set to make the step into coaching next season.

Robinson, who knows well of King’s qualities having played in goal behind him during his four seasons at White Hart Lane, believes that it is a natural next step for his former teammate.

The ex-Spurs man also added that he did not doubt that King would thrive in the new role under the experienced and often defensive Jose Mourinho.

Speaking about the appointment, the former England number one told Football Insider: “I know Ledley has been working behind the scenes with some of the fringe players and since Jose has come in he has done more and more.

“I am pleased for him and the club. He is a one-club man and a great guy. I have a lot of time and respect for Ledley.

“It is a natural progression for him to join the backroom staff. A wonderful role model for all of the younger players and he will have a great rapport with them.

“He has a great manner about him and will be that link between the manager and the players.”

The former shot-stopper also revealed King led by example during his playing days and predicted that he would be a supportive coach rather than someone who strikes fear into his players.

He added: “Ledley led by example, not with his voice. He was very quiet but as he has got older and matured I imagine he is now able to portray himself in a way that is understood.

“He will not be giving them the hairdryer treatment. Ledley will be playing the good cop on the backroom staff.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Jose has clearly been impressed by what he has seen of King on the training field and believes that his advice will be valuable to the young players coming through. I cannot think of a better person to work with the likes of Japhet Tanganga and Malachi Fagan-Walcott, considering that they would have grown up idolising Ledley.

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