“There is not one single manager in the world that doesn’t play Gareth Bale if Gareth Bale is in very good condition. There is not one.”

That’s what Jose Mourinho said after Spurs’ 4-0 win over Burnley at the weekend. Bale’s return to Spurs did not start as explosively as some would have hoped, but Gareth Bale’s last few games have shown us glimpses of the world-class player that has entertained us for many seasons on the Premier League, La Liga and Champions League. 

Bale had a few fitness issues when he first arrived back at Spurs, but his two goals and assist against Burnley showed that he’s still got what it takes to deliver the goods, and it will be interesting to see if he can keep up his form and be the star man in the next few games, including the North London derby in a couple of weeks time.

I know from playing agaisnt him and what he has become that Bale can be one of the very best on his day. Just like we saw in the Champions League final against Liverpool when he scored the incredible bicycle kick to help Real Madrid become champions. This is what we love to see from a player like Bale and it’s exactly what Spurs fans will be hoping for more of as we go into the final third of the season. 

Spurs are 8th in the table after winning just two games in six, but you would have to say they are still in the race for top 4, and if Bale can keep his fitness they will be one of the teams battling all the way to the end of the season. His confidence is there, and I’m hoping he has the legs to keep up with packed football schedule in the next few months. #mmlove