Tottenham could be boosted by the surprise Boxing Day return of captain Ledley King who undergoes a fitness test ahead of the clash with Fulham.

King had been expected to sit the match out as he continues to battle back to peak condition after undergoing surgery on a knee problem but he now stands a chance of returning to the squad.

King has not played since the final game of last season and underwent an operation in May before a thigh strain kept him out of the north London derby with Arsenal.

His absence has been keenly felt this season as Younes Kaboul has failed to build a solid partnership with Michael Dawson.

Midfielder Didier Zokora has also been used at the back as Juande Ramos - for whom King, 27, has yet to play - sought to compensate for King's unavailability.

His comeback against the Cottagers would be a huge boon for a side who are beginning to find their feet after a dismal start which led to relegation fears and the departure of Martin Jol.

Jermaine Jenas joins King in taking a late test as he looks to shake off an ankle problem.