Bale returns as Real beat Osasuna
GARETH BALE returned to the team and Real Madrid came back to beat Osasuna yesterday as a 4-1 victory in Pamplona strengthened their hold on top spot in La Liga.
Bale had been left out completely for Madrid’s previous four matches but the Welshman returned to the squad and the starting line-up at El Sadar, in a surprise show of faith from coach Zinedine Zidane.
A fortuitous deflection meant Bale assisted Isco’s equaliser too before Sergio Ramos put Madrid in front after Unai Garcia had given Osasuna an early lead.
Substitutes Lucas Vazquez and Luka
Jovic then scored from late breakaways as Real pulled three points clear of Barcelona.
“I’m pleased with all the players and what they're doing. It’s very good to stay in front,” said Zidane.
Bale keeps coming back under Zidane and the 30-year-old had chances to add a goal to a spirited display before going off to a decent reception from the away support in the second half.
This was only his third appearance since the turn of the year.
“People want there to be a problem but there isn’t one,” Zidane said. “He did well, offensively and defensively he gave everything. He was a bit short of fitness at the end, so he came off.
“We know the player he is and that he will give a lot from now until the end of the season. Let’s count on Gareth.”
Eden Hazard is still yet to return after recovering from a foot fracture. Real play Manchester City in the Champions League in less than two weeks.
“It wasn’t the time today again and I hope we’ll see him next week,” said Zidane.