Real Madrid's Bale joins up with Wales, who promise no risks
Having come off with a groin problem in Saturday's defeat to Alavés, Real Madrid's Gareth Bale will be closely looked over by Wales doctors.
Gareth Bale was unable to finish Real Madrid's LaLiga clash at Alavés on Saturday, which brought a fourth defeat in just 11 games so far this season for Los Blancos. The forward was taken off late on in the second half, holding his groin - the same area of his body that he had been troubled by against Atlético Madrid a week earlier, leading to his withdrawal at half-time of the derby.
Bale left the field at Mendizorroza in the 80th minute, but not before managing to take a direct free-kick moments prior to his substitution, a fact that suggested the 29-year-old was not carrying anything overly serious.
Wales' approach will be "not to take any risks"
It had appeared touch-and-go whether Bale would join up with Wales for the international break - which sees Ryan Giggs' side take on Spain and Ireland - but he has now travelled to Cardiff, where it will be down to his national team's medical staff to decide whether or not he is able to play. Sources at the Welsh FA have told AS that the former Tottenham man will be closely monitored at all times and that their approach will be "not to take any risks with him".
Real Madrid and Wales out to avoid repeat of last year
A year ago, Real Madrid and Wales were left at loggerheads over an injury to Bale, with the two parties issuing contradictory versions over how he picked up a problem that ended up sidelining him for over two months. On this occasion, everyone is clear on how this should play out: stick closely to doctors' advice and take no chances, given that Real have tough weeks ahead and will badly need a footballer who, at the moment, is one of their chief assets in attack.
