Bale gives us winning mentality, says Hart
JOE HART says Gareth Bale is helping to instil a winning mentality in Tottenham’s dressing room, after the Welshman scored a vital equaliser in last night’s 4-1 FA Cup win at Wycombe.
Bale beat the offside trap to net in first-half stoppage-time, as Spurs came from behind to beat the Championship’s basement club and set-up a fifthround tie at Everton.
The 31-year-old completed 90 minutes for the first time this season and produced his most influential performance since returning to Tottenham on loan, despite betraying his lack of sharpness in front of goal with a succession of misses either side of his goal.
Bale and Hart were both signed in the summer for their personalities and experience as much as their ability, and the goalkeeper says his team-mate is proving influential on and off the pitch as Spurs continue to progress in three cup competitions.
“We always knew it was going to be a project with Gaz and he fully understands that,” Hart told Standard Sport. “He’s here to help the team win things and he demonstrated that on the pitch last night and on a few other occasions. Gaz has obviously had his injuries but he knows how to look after himself and when he’s fit he’s going to help our team.
“His influence is as you’d expect — he’s been there and done it. For a club trying to do things,
I think it’s important to have guys that have been there and won and can reference what it takes. We talk about it a lot but we’re a team that wants to win.” Spurs boss Jose Mourinho said he never doubted Bale (left) could complete 90 minutes at Adams Park, but the forward can expect to return to the bench for Thursday’s League visit of faltering champions Liverpool.
Mourinho was relieved to avoid extra-time as Harry Winks scored in the 86th minute to break the home side’s resolve before substitute Tanguy Ndombele added gloss to the scoreline with a late double. Wycombe, who are rooted to the foot of the Championship table, took a shock first-half lead through Fred Onyedinma.