New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen has completed his free transfer to Premier League title contender Tottenham following his release from Blackburn.

The 34-year-old Nelsen, who captained his country at the 2010 World Cup, will provide cover at centre-back with Ledley King and William Gallas injured and Sebastien Bassong having been loaned out to Wolverhampton Wanderers for the rest of the season.

Blackburn cancelled Nelsen’s contract on Tuesday – Europe’s transfer deadline day – allowing Tottenham to sign the player despite the January window having closed.

Spurs assistant manager Kevin Bond says Nelsen, who has played just one first-team game this season, is in contention to feature against Liverpool on Monday.