Bale had already sent out a warning to Rafa Benitez’s side two weeks ago, when with Spurs four goals, and a man down, he ran the Inter defence ragged, ending the night with three excellent goals and a memorable hat-trick.
In many ways his performance tonight may just prove to be even more important, because it demonstrates that his display in the San Siro was no fluke. While fans in the Premier League have been aware of Bale’s ability for some time now, he is only just beginning to establish himself on the European stage.
Consistency in his performances is now crucial if Bale wishes to establish himself as one of the world’s best footballers, and if he can continue to turn out displays like he has been recently there is no reason why he shouldn’t.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp couldn’t have heaped any more praise on Bale when speaking after the Inter win. Redknapp said: “He was amazing. Maicon is rated as the best right-back in the world and what he’s done to him over the last two games is amazing. He can cross, his left foot is great on the run, he can shoot, dribble, head it, he’s got everything.”
Bale is now arguably the first name on the Spurs team-sheet and this is quite unbelievable when you consider he is only 21. In years to come you really do see him starring at the very highest stage, because his potential his limitless.
I have no doubt that the world’s super clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona will come hunting for Bale in the not so distant future, and it will really be a test of Spurs’ ambition as to whether they sell or not. To challenge for the Premier League they need to keep hold of Bale, he is that vital to their future.
That is not just a measure of how good Bale is now, but how good he could be. The talent is there, the work ethic is there, and now the confidence is there. Barring injuries Bale really could go down as one of the Premier League’s best ever players.
