Penalty 'culprits' all smiles after memorable night

Michael Dawson saw the funny side of events at Ledley King’s Testimonial – despite picking up a yellow card and giving away a penalty!

Ledley’s successor as club skipper got a light-hearted ticking off from referee Howard Webb after clipping David Ginola and was partly responsible for giving away the penalty from which Ledley opened the scoring on his special night at White Hart Lane.

Daws then looked on as referee Webb got involved in the action himself during the second period – only to be brought down by Lewis Holtby!

But despite the ‘controversy’, Michael insisted the comedic moments all added to the occasion.

“It was entertaining, especially with all the legends back, and there were plenty of nutmegs but that’s what it’s all about,” said Daws as he reflected on Monday night’s celebration of Ledley’s career.

“Then when Howard nicked it off one of the lads and Lewis two-footed him – that was absolutely hilarious, to be fair. I was just hoping Howard wasn’t going to be out for the World Cup!”

Michael’s central defensive partner Younes Kaboul was also a culprit as Ledley was brought down for the opening penalty – but that didn’t matter to either after the game, with both men left to reflect on an “unbelievable” night.

“The fans were brilliant and we had a quality time – it was unbelievable,” declared Younes. “To see some former Spurs players back out there was a great honour.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Ledley. He had a very good career, he went through some bad injuries like me, and I’m delighted that he had a great night.”

Daws concurred after the Ledley Guest XI’s eventual 6-3 triumph against Spurs, adding: “The fans were tremendous throughout and it was an unbelievable occasion. Me and Leds are close, I owe him a lot, but it was all about him.

“A lot of people turned out, people who’ve travelled a long way, and that just shows the respect that Ledley has got.”