Welsh star admits continued soreness in right ankle.
Gareth Bale has admitted he is playing through the pain in a bid to help Tottenham secure Champions League football next season.
The Welsh forward, who is candidate for both the PFA Player and Young Player of the Year awards, has been on sensational form for Spurs this term, netting 23 goals and almost single-handedly keeping the team in contention for a top four finish.
But Bale missed two weeks after injuring his ankle in the club’s Europa League quarter-final with Basel early this month, and was sidelined for two weeks.
The 23-year-old made his return against Man City on Sunday and, after a quiet first half, helped Spurs to a fine 3-1 win with a goal and an assist.
With Spurs locked in a fierce three-way battle with London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea for two spaces in the Premier League top four, the former Southampton star has confessed he is playing through the pain to help the Lilywhite achieve their goal.
“It was touch and go whether I was going to play – but thankfully I got through it okay,” Bale is quoted as saying by ESPN.
“It was a bit sore in the first half but I got more confident in the second half. It hurts but it’s just about managing it and carrying on.”
After coming from behind to defeat the reigning league champions, Bale is confident Spurs can finish the season in style, despite a tricky run-in which includes a trip to Stamford Bridge.
“All three goals were important,” he added. “The first gave us belief, the second killed them and the third one just sealed it so it was a great comeback.
“We showed great character and hopefully we can carry that on in the last five games. It shows the team spirit we have in the dressing room.
“We need to keep that character, team spirit and togetherness in the last five games and push for our objectives this season.”
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