The yardstick to measure Bale against must be James, not Cristiano

Replicating his achievements from 2013/14 was always going to be difficult for Gareth Bale, but he has not regressed to the level that certain members of the Spanish press or Santiago Bernabeu support would have you believe. Yes, the expectations from him were always high because the sheer monetary value of his transfer, but Bale has not done too shabbily when he’s donned a Real shirt this season, albeit not at the same level as last season.

James and Gareth Bale

To add to last season’s cup final heroics at home and abroad, Bale has already provided an assist in a victorious UEFA Super Cup triumph over Sevilla and netted in a third major showpiece as Real Madrid surged to FIFA World Club Cup glory in Morocco. Continue reading