Player Watch: Gareth Bale - Retires

[dtxspurs]

Been a big defender of Bergwijn. But I agree, Bale wins you games.

I think they both should play. Bale at 10 and Bergwijn at RW.

 

[Rocksuperstar]

I wonder if Bale playing so far forward is the difference. When he was with us previously he started a lot further back and when he picked up the ball he was already three or four strides into his pace so that first touch was key, he'd catch his man on the turn and he's got four yards on him before he's even got his head back around - that's not the game he plays anymore.

We've had him playing wide front man when we've fielded him and, for some reason, even when we break now we do it slowly and through the middle. Noticed how much more effective he was when he had more freedom to roam around a bit, get back and help out rather than loitering on the flank waiting to break - he looked way more comfortable, was finding his own space and was, arguably, one of the best players wearing our shirt out there today.

 

[ackie]

Played very well today.
Hope this carries on.

 

[chrissivad]

I would like to see him play behind Kane.
Not sure if that's an option.

Great to see an attacker who could change the tempo of the game in an instant.

 

[DiVaio]

I think they both should play. Bale at 10 and Bergwijn at RW.

It's amazing that when Jose stops playing Sissoko in midfield than he invents Lucas Moura as 10.

 

[dtxspurs]

It's amazing that when Jose stops playing Sissoko in midfield than he invents Lucas Moura as 10.

The man genuinely can't get out of his own way.

 

[Lineker11]

His demeanour seemed different today, he looked interested and he had a spring in his step for the first time since he came back, he can still play at this level going by that 45.

 

[StooM]

4 and half months of reconditioning, acclimating and getting some confidence back and it showed today.

This. This is the key with Bale, always was even before he left the 1st time to RM. It's no surprise that as his physical confidence is growing, his fitness, sharpness and presence is coming back.

It might sound controversial but I think he's been handled pretty well since coming back. The danger after a large period of inactivity (game-wise) and period of injuries is rushing back and picking up a big injury, setting the long term process back even further.

It's been noticeable how much sharper he is over the past few games - long may it continue as we get out of this slump

 

[Ghost Hardware]

The biggest shame would be if after all this time Bale comes back only to be shafted by Jose and disappears again at the end of season. Would have been nice to see what he could have done under a more progressive manager.

 

[muppetman]

I thought he was a rare ray of sunshine today - more of that please Gareth.

 

[Jamturk]

Today's Bale was brilliant, really took the game on.

Let's hope it cotinues.

 

[13VanDerBale13]

Has to start every game in the league, enough of this bs that he’s not ready, you can take him off, not bring him on when it’s too late & we’re already behind due to our shit defence.

 

[Gbspurs]

He's been our best player for the last 3 games, needs to start from now on.

 

[Gassin's finest]

Anyone else see him mouth "motherfucker" when he hit the bar?

 

[JCRD]

He was very good today. I don't think him stuck on the right is the correct place for him... Think a roaming role like today was good for him... Popped up in all sorts of places.

 

[Strikeb4ck]

He should be starting in a 3-4-3 with Kane and Son.

 

[mano-obe]

Season will be over in a few months and its so sad Jose wouldn't play him. I hope we can send him off with a league cup/Europa medal. A nice ending to it all

 

[Neon_Knight_]

I think they both should play. Bale at 10 and Bergwijn at RW.

For me, Bale looks more threatening coming in off RW than starting centrally. It makes it easier for him to find space for a shot or pick out a final ball.

 

[idontgetit]

I think they both should play. Bale at 10 and Bergwijn at RW.

Bergwijn has done absolutely nothing all season to deserve being anywhere near a starting spot. I do like the Bale at 10 idea but both Lamela and Moura offer a hell of a lot more than Bergwijn.

 

[idontgetit]

For me, Bale looks more threatening coming in off RW than starting centrally. It makes it easier for him to find space for a shot or pick out a final ball.

Based on what? His performances three season ago for Real Madrid? He's not had a go at 10 for us since rejoining.