Worlds most expensive footballer struggled in his 30 minute cameo.
Wales boss Chris Coleman says Gareth Bale is “nowhere near” peak fitness after coming off the bench in the 3-0 defeat to Serbia on Tuesday.
Bale made his first competitive appearance since a world record £86 million move to Real Madrid, but struggled during a 30 minute cameo and displayed the effects of a disruptive pre-season.
The 24-year-old managed just 45 minutes in Tottenham’s friendly against Swindon on 16 July and has seen his summer thrown into disorder by injuries and an ongoing transfer saga.
However, it’s understood that Bale is hoping to make his Madrid debut against Villarreal on Saturday, but Coleman has reservations as to whether he’ll be fit enough to perform to his usual high-standards.
“He played 30 minutes but after 15 minutes he looked tired – but he has only had four training sessions, so you will not get what you normally get,” Coleman told FourFourTwo.
“If he starts Saturday he will not finish the game, I would be amazed if he does. He is nowhere near ready for 90 minutes even if Spanish football is slower.
“He may get 45 minutes, I don’t know, but he will feel better in himself after 30 minutes.”
Bale was introduced after Serbia’s third goal at the Cardiff City Stadium leaving Wales bottom of Group A.
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