The assist
Spurs boy Gareth Bale set up Wales’ David Brooks to secure a 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland, which kept the Welsh at the top of their Nations League group.
Elsewhere, Bale had another decent enough game, getting three shots away on goal, of varying quality. For me, the concern is just how long it will take for Bale to come back to what might be deemed an acceptably high standard – for Tottenham. My fear is that this deal was awash with so much romanticism – that the reality of his limitations were overlooked. There’s a lot that can happen between now and next summer, but I’d be surprised if José Mourinho wants any more to do with this particular Daniel Levy fairytale.
The shots
He hardly played last season. He had no pre season. After his injury it was always going to take some time. Bales coming good now he’s always proved his doubters wrong. He will definitely improve us. Crucially he is a winner. Expect him to turn up in big games when we need him.
No doubt he needs to improve his performances, I half expected him to need time to find his mojo again, but it’s a long season still ahead and he can only get better as it goes on. The way Wales play is not helping him though, as it is restricting the attacking players when going forward.