LUKA MODRIC has defended Gareth Bale by declaring he was harshly treated at Real Madrid.
The Welshman endured a turbulent relationship at the Bernabeu before sealing his loan switch to Tottenham this summer.
Luka Modric, left, has defended Wales ace Gareth BaleCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Despite winning four Champions League trophies, Bale was heavily criticised for his love of golf and failing to learn Spanish in the seven years he was with the club.
But Modric, also a former team-mate at Tottenham, defended the winger claiming he did in fact speak the lingo inside the dressing room.
Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, the 35-year-old said: “I have spent most of my professional career with Gareth.
“What I can say is that he is a spectacular guy.
“He is shy and what is said about Gareth is not fair.
“They judge him for the last few years and what he has done in Madrid is impressive.
“He spoke a little Spanish in the dressing room. In recent years a lot of things have come out and they forget everything he has done.”
“Everyone has their own behavior and the way of transmitting it.
Gareth Bale is back on the training pitch at SpursCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“Gareth didn’t associate much, but in the dressing room he was fine.
“I am sorry that he forgets everything he has done for the last year and a half.”
Bale’s relationship with Real Madrid and boss Zinedine Zidane hit rock bottom towards the end of his time in Spain.
He caused fury in November on international duty when he posed with a flag that read “Wales, golf, Real Madrid – In that order.”
Bale further angered Real chiefs at the end of last season when he was pictured on the bench pretending to sleep with his face mask covering his eyes and also cupping imaginary binoculars to his face.
Bale has yet to make his second Spurs debut due to a hamstring injury.
But he has returned to training and boss Jose Mourinho is hopeful of having him in the squad to face West Ham after the international break.
Gareth Bale could return EARLY from injury due to his love for Tottenham, claims Jose Mourinho
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
