Gareth Bale was back in the starting XI for Tottenham this evening against Stoke City as the Lilywhites looked to qualify for the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.
The Welshman played 45 minutes against Leicester City at the weekend without having too much influence on proceedings, with Spurs eventually losing 2-0 to the Foxes.
However, Bale managed to get on the scoresheet against Championship Stoke today, flicking on a Harry Winks cross expertly to score with his head.
The goal represented a huge breakthrough for Tottenham as Stoke looked to be holding firm at the back.
Unfortunately for Spurs fans who were likely enjoying seeing Bale back and playing well, the winger was removed at half-time, replaced by Heung-min Son.
Jose Mourinho has now revealed that Bale asked to come off because he could feel an injury, the last thing the head coach or Welsh wizard would have wanted. It remains to be seen whether the move was more precautionary or whether damage has been done.
Mourinho said (Football London): “His decision. Something he felt. He told me immediately when walking to the dressing room.”
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