Stevie Nicol has questioned ‘what’s wrong’ with Tottenham Hotspur transfer target, Gareth Bale, amid his difference in form for Wales and Real Madrid.
The Anfield legend stated on ESPN that he has ‘never’ seen a player perform with such a difference for his club compared to what he produces for his country.
On Thursday, Bale netted a brace for Wales during their crucial 2-1 win over Austria in their World Cup qualifier play-off, including a stunning free-kick.
In comparison, Bale, who was on-loan at Spurs last season, has played only 270 minutes in Madrid colours this season – for Wales, he has played 315 minutes this term.
The 32-year-old, who is out-of-contract at the Bernabeu in the summer, has been criticised by the Spanish media, as a result of that.
Given Bale’s situation, it has left Nicol baffled, as he can’t understand why he ‘disappears’ when has the Madrid top on.
“It was the same thing at Spurs as well though,” said Nicol. “It’s not just at Real Madrid. When he went to Spurs, it was almost ‘what’s wrong with this guy?’
“There has to be something wrong with him because you can’t do what he does for Wales, then go back to your club and just disappear.
“I have never (seen such a difference from a player’s performance for club and country). Certain players have played better for their country than for their club.
“But not from the position that Gareth is doing it from. Not playing. Not kicking a ball. Seemingly injured all the time. Not at the ground. Seemingly Golfing. Just completely disappearing into the woods until the next international break. I have never seen that before. It’s incredible.”
If Wales qualify for the 2022 World Cup, then Bale may have to re-think what he does beyond the summer.
He is heading for the exit door at Real Madrid, but up until November, he will need a place to keep his battery going.
There are some suggestions that he could head back to Tottenham, after all, that’s what landed him the Real Madrid transfer many years ago, including him re-signing for the club last season.
Or, he could sign for Championship side, Cardiff City, his hometown club.
Either way, the next time fans will see Bale working his magic will be in June when Wales face-off in a one-off game for a place at the 2022 World Cup.
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