A calf strain injury has ruled Gareth Bale out of Wales’ crunch WC qualifiers against Georgia and the Republic of Ireland. The forward did not play in Real’s game against Espanyol and it was hoped that he would be be fit, but he is not at 100%, with Barnsley forward Tom Bradshaw called to replace Bale in the national squad.

Wales are second in the group behind Serbia, with two games to play. They’re looking to qualify for their first World Cup since 1958.

Since 2013, Wales have played six games without Bale and have not won a game, drawing three and losing three in his absence.