Bale still prince of Wales despite pain in Spain says Ryan
RYAN GIGGS says Gareth Bale’s problems at Real Madrid will not stop him being Wales’ main man.
Bale has fallen out with the Spanish champions but was yesterday called up by Giggs for the Nations League matches against Finland a week tomorrow and Bulgaria three days later.
TheWales manager said: “He’s a fantastic footballer and someone who can make the difference. His mentality is always the same. He always wants to play.”
The 31-year-old is being frozen out at Madrid but is happy to see out the remaining two years of his deal and pick up £350,000 a week after tax.
Real manager Zinedine Zidane, above, wants Bale out and has become frustrated by the Welshman’s stance.
The winger’s big problem is he has played only 100 minutes in La Liga since mid-February, and his last league goal was 12 months ago.
Reports suggest that Bale’s imminent return with Wales is causing concern in Spain.
During his last spell of international duty he held aloft the infamous “Wales, golf, Madrid – in that order” banner as the players celebrated qualifying for Euro 2020 in November.
Giggs added: “Gareth’s been in this situation quite a long time now. He looks after himself.At the moment is it a worry to me? No.
“He may not always be totally match fit but he’s managed it quite well during the past 18 months.”
Euro 2016 hero Hal Robson-Kanu returns to the Wales fold after nearly three years away, and there are first senior call-ups for Liverpool’s Neco Williams and Ben Cabango of Swansea.