There’s only one Gareth Bale... he’s different to the rest, a special player
ZZ HAILS WALES STAR ON AMAZING RETURN FOR REAL
GARETH BALE spent three months bursting for a chance to play at the Bernabeu again.
It took him just 12 minutes to remind the Madrid faithful why he is so important to their La Liga and Champions League hopes.
Manager Zinedine Zidane described the Wales Galactico as a “special player” after sending him on as a 71st-minute substitute, with Real hanging on to a 1-0 lead against Espanyol.
And no sooner was he stretched and warmed up than he finished a lungbursting run from his own half by latching on to Isco’s clever pass, racing into the box, and finishing across the keeper from a tight angle.
Injury and ankle-tendon surgery had kept Bale sidelined since November but, after just five days of training with his team-mates, he was thrown back into the action.
And with a goal and three points in the bag, a delighted Bale said: “I absolutely loved being back on that Bernabeu pitch.
“Thanks to the fans for the amazing welcome back.
“I feel very good after having worked for three months to recover, and to have contributed a goal towards the team’s victory. It will take me a few weeks to fully recover and be at 100 per cent.
“It was difficult being absent for so long but the team was winning and that’s the most important thing. We want to win both titles and I want to help.”
Real boss Zidane sees the Welshman’s return as a huge boost for the run-in, with Madrid favourites for the Spanish League title.
He said: “I am happy to have Bale back. He was eager to get back playing again. When he came on I told him to go out and enjoy himself.
“He is a special player, he’s different from the rest, but each player does their bit.
“It doesn’t look like he’s been out for three months. He’s very powerful, he makes the difference, and that’s why he’s special.
“Gareth is Gareth. We have only got one Gareth Bale, but we’ve got other players who are doing a great job”.