Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has explained how the departure of club-record goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo has helped him after netting a scintillating hat-trick in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Bale, 29, has predominantly been used on the right during the years he shared with Ronaldo at the Bernabeu.
But the exit of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to Juventus has allowed the former Tottenham star to play in a ‘comfortable position.’
Bale was afforded a start on the left of an attacking midfield in the European champions’ Club World Cup semi-final against Kashima Antlers, where he scored a blistering hat-trick in 11 minutes in the 3-1 win.
The Welsh wizard established an effective partnership with Brazil left-back Marcelo as Real booked their place in the final against Al Ain.
“Throughout my [early] career, I played from the left wing,” Bale said when asked about occupying Rolando’s previous position, as per The Independent.
“I’m comfortable playing in that position but I can play on the right, on the left or in the centre. I will play wherever the coach needs me to.
“It’s great to score, but the most important thing is to help the team and reach the final.”
Wales’ record goalscorer has now scored 10 goals and registered five assists in 18 starts across all competitions during a productive start to the season despite Los Blancos’ indifferent form.
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