Injured Bale is fighting a losing battle

– Ryan Giggs expects Gareth Bale (right) to miss Wales’ Nations League clash against the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday.

Bale was sidelined for Wales’ 4-1 friendly defeat against Spain in Cardiff on Thursday after aggravating a groin injury while playing for Real Madrid against Alaves last weekend.

He had hoped to recover for the trip to Dublin next week, but the Wales boss admitted he doesn’t expect his star to be back in time.

“Gareth is struggling for Tuesday. We will make a decision in the next couple of days. –

Cardiff