WALES were involved in a translator farce – for a second Euro 2020 qualifier running.
Ryan Giggs’ pre-match media conference in Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku turned into a shambles after the Uefa-appointed female translator asked the Welsh boss, “Who is Gareth Bale?”.
Ryan Giggs was not impressed by the gaffeCredit: Alamy Live News
The translator sits next to Giggs, who doesn’t look impressed, before getting the elbowCredit: Getty – Contributor
Bale faced the press ahead of the crunch clash in BakuCredit: Getty – Contributor
After Giggs’ media session, the Welsh FA ordered Uefa to ditch the translator on the spot due to concerns over her knowledge and experience.
The translator also kept speaking over a frustrated Giggs as he tried to answer questions.
Gareth Bale then followed his manager and another translator arrived halfway through his Q and A.
That prompted Real Madrid’s Bale to quip, “You’re a bit late”.
Croatia axed their translator ahead of their meeting with Wales in Cardiff last month because the translation from Croatian to English was deemed not good enough.
Bale then went on to risk the wrath of Real Madrid fans by admitting that he prefers playing for Wales.
The ponytailed superstar told reporters: “I definitely have a bit more excitement playing for Wales.
“I’ve been with most of the older players since we were in Under-17s. It’s like playing with your mates down the park on a Sunday. It’s normal.
“With Wales, I’m speaking my own language and feel more comfortable.
“But it doesn’t change what I do on the pitch. I always give 100 per cent on the pitch wherever I am, that’s what I always strive to do.”
Wales’ trip to Azerbaijan is the first of two crunch qualifiers in the next week, with Hungary coming to Cardiff on Tuesday.
Real Madrid star Gareth Bale returns to training with Wales
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
