Edgar Davids led the tributes at Ledley King’s Testimonial, describing our legendary former captain as ‘one of the best defenders in the world’.
One of the most recognised footballers of his era, Edgar spent two years at the Lane and Ledley clearly made an impression on a player who also starred for Ajax, AC and Inter Milan, Juventus and Barcelona.
“He was a great captain, a role model and an ambassador for this club,” said Edgar.
“I always said he was one of the best defenders in the world. I’ve played with many and against a lot and I can tell he’s one of the best.
“What’s also important is to remember that behind every football, there is a human being and Ledley is a great, great guy. He deserves this night.”
Edgar was also delighted to be back at the Lane. “I’m very excited to play. This stadium means a lot to me, it’s very cosy, the atmosphere is great. It feels like home.”
Teddy Sheringham saw Ledley come through the ranks in his second spell at the club.
In the top 10 of our all-time goalscorers with 124 goals in 277 appearances, Teddy strutted his stuff again on the night, scoring twice in the first half to help Ledley’s Guest XI to a 6-3 win.
“Ledley’s a fantastic servant to this club, a top, top player,” said Teddy. “It’s just a shame about his knee, he could have been even better but as he says, he’s had a fantastic career and enjoyed every minute of it. We’re all here to show our appreciation. It’s very deserving.”
Paul Robinson renewed his fantastic relationship with the fans with an appearance in the second half.
“This is always a special place for me,” said the former England number one, a League Cup winner in his four years at the club. “I had a lot of happy times here and to come back and have the chance to put the shirt on again means a lot. You can see from the turn out of players how respected Ledley is and what the players think of him.”
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