Newcastle boss: If you picked a world XI, Bale would be in it in two positions

Monday, February 11, 2013
8:30 AM

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew admitted his team could do nothing to shackle Tottenham’s match-winner, Gareth Bale.

The Welshman scored twice and gave the Magpies a torrid time for 90 minutes.

“We did a lot of work on trying to stop Bale, but there are still going to be moments when he creates that space and when he hits the ball he connects with it so truly, that’s what makes him so difficult,” Pardew said.

“If you picked a world XI, there’s no doubt in my mind that he plays left midfield or even left-back.

“It’s amazing, really, when you think about his career, because he sat here for two years more or less doing nothing.

“He’s a great example to players that actually there’s always time. Just keep working and the opportunity and the confidence comes and you can find your way. And fair play to him.”