LEDLEY King wants to repay the faith shown in him by England manager Fabio Capello.

King is likely to partner John Terry for England’s first match against the USA after Rio Ferdinand was ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury and the Tottenham man revealed he feels indebted to Capello for his international opportunity.

King hardly trains with the rest of the squad due to longstanding knee problems, spending most of his time in the gym and the swimming pool but Capello is prepared to take a risk on him.

“I felt awkward at first but I couldn’t have asked for more,” revealed King. “He’s (Capello) been brilliant.

“It’s just a different situation. I’ve not been involved with England and they’ve not seen how I work throughout the week.

“It’s been a bit of a shock to the players - and maybe the staff - but the manager has been brilliant.

“He’s told me to do what I would normally do. He’s not a manager who is going to show favouritism to anyone.

“You have to perform and do the right things. It was flattering that he showed great faith in me.

“For him to show that faith in me is a great compliment and I’m hopeful I can repay that.”