Gareth Bale prefers international football over playing for Real Madrid

Wales international Gareth Bale has responded to criticism over his priorities when it comes to his football career ahead of his nation’s pivotal Euro 2020 qualifier in Baku

The Dragons travel to Azerbaijan for the penultimate Euro 2020 qualifying fixture obliged to pick up all three points to keep their hopes of reaching the final tournament alive.

Ryan Giggs’ men face an uphill task of breaking into Group E top two, as they sit four points adrift of second-placed Hungary but do have a game in hand on the Magyars.

After not taking part in any Real Madrid training session since the injury he suffered with Wales a month ago, Bale is fully taking part in group training on the very first day at the Wales camp without any problems. pic.twitter.com/vZjxWAdsyX

— M•A•J (@Ultra_Suristic) November 11, 2019

Gareth Bale, who has not been featuring for Real Madrid since early October, should spearhead Wales’ attack against Azerbaijan although his physical condition remains uncertain.

Widely criticized by the Spanish media for his lackadaisical attitude and underwhelming performances for Los Blancos, the 30-year-old has emphasized the importance of international football to him.

“With Wales, I’m speaking my own language and feeling more comfortable,” said Bale, as reported by BBC.

Gareth Bale says he is "more excited" playing for Wales than Real Madrid and has laughed off criticism from the Spanish media.

More here 👉 https://t.co/FVy0M8jwWA pic.twitter.com/8YqWQ9lG3z

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) November 15, 2019

“I definitely have a bit more excitement playing for Wales.

“I’ve been with most of the players, especially the older ones since we were in the Under-17s. It’s like playing with your mates down the park on a Sunday.

“But it still doesn’t change what I give on the pitch. I always give 100% wherever I am, and that’s what I always strive to do.”

Bale has netted two of Wales’ total six goals scored in the ongoing qualifying campaign, which equals his goals tally in La Liga this term.