GARETH BALE is being ‘tentative’ and ‘fragile’ and needs to express himself more, says Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle.
The Welsh wonder, 31, has failed to hit top form since returning to the club from Real Madrid on loan last summer.
Gareth Bale has been urged to express himself more to earn a spot in Jose Mourinho’s teamCredit: Getty
He has struck just three goals in 13 appearances and it appears even his manager Jose Mourinho is starting to grow a little frustrated with the attacker.
A video has emerged of the Portuguese questioning Bale’s commitment in training, and ex-Spurs playmaker and boss Hoddle has admitted Bale’s return has been disappointing.
Hoddle told talkSPORT: “I’m disappointed that he hasn’t had enough opportunities, but to get the opportunities he has to earn it.
“He came on against Brighton and scored the header that got them the three points.
“He affected the game there but it’s been stop-start for him.”
The 63-year-old added: “He just looks a bit tentative to me and looks like he’s not prepared to put a good sprint in like we know he can do.
“He’s not going to be like yesteryear but he’s got to put his foot in a bit more when he goes to beat people – he just looks a bit fragile.
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“It may be a mental thing.
“But if he can break through and contribute for Tottenham in a big way this season.
“He’s just got to get on the pitch to do it and at the moment it seems Jose’s reluctant to give him any minutes.”
Mourinho heard giving Gareth Bale brutal warning in training about being sent back to Real Madrid to ‘play no football’
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
