Ledley King starts for Tottenham in their FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea as Harry Redknapp makes five changes to the side that lost to Norwich on Monday.

The centre-back’s long-standing knee problems meant he was a doubt having faced the Canaries earlier this week but he takes his place alongside William Gallas who comes in for the injured Younes Kaboul.

Aaron Lennon makes just his second start since returning from a hamstring injury, while Parker returns to the team in central midfield.

Rafael Van der Vaart will support Adebayor upfront as Redknapp returns to the 4-5-1 formation that has brought his team much of their success this season.

Former Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini, who has featured in all of Spurs FA Cup matches this season, replaces Brad Friedel between the posts to face his old club.

Chelsea have also made five changes to their side that faced Fulham on Monday, with Drogba playing a lone role up front and £50million striker Fernando Torres relegated to the bench.

Tottenham, playing in their 19th FA Cup semi-final, are looking to combine their top-four chase with silverware as the season nears its end.

The eight-time winners have not lifted the famous trophy in 21 years and will be looking to secure a clash against yesterday’s semi-final winners Liverpool next month.

Tottenham: Cudicini; Walker, Gallas, King, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon, Modric, Parker, Bale; Van der Vaart, Adebayor.

Subs: Friedel, Nelsen, Rose, Giovanni, Livermore, Sandro, Defoe.

Chelsea: Cech; Bosingwa, Luiz, Terry, Cole; Mikel, Lampard, Ramires, Mata; Kalou Drogba.

Subs: Turnbull, Cahill, Essien, Meireles, Malouda, Sturridge, Torres.