Wales manager Rob Page says Gareth Bale’s goalscoring record has never been in question after the captain’s heroics in the World Cup Qualifying victory over Belarus on Sunday.
Bale, who is Wales’ all-time leading goalscorer, netted twice from the penalty spot before dramatically completing his hat-trick with just over a minute left to play, clinching all three points for Page’s men.
Prior to Sunday’s game in Kazan, Bale had not scored in an away game for his country since 2016. The Real Madrid man certainly chose a timely moment to update that particular statistic, with his goals ensuring a vital three points for Wales as they seek to qualify for a World Cup for the first time since 1958.
“I got the match ball, I made sure of that,” said the Wales captain in today’s media conference.
Such a long wait for Bale to add his to international away goals column had led to some beginning to doubt the forward’s influence. Manager Page, however, insisted that he never subscribed to this point of view.
“I’ve never been in question of his ability, his commitment or his goal scoring record,” said the interim boss.
“He brings a lot more than just scoring goals to the team.”
There is no doubt that having a player of Bale’s stature and experience is a big boost for Wales, and in particular the young players coming through the ranks. The 32-year-old says he has relished the opportunity to lead his country.
“I enjoy being captain, it’s an honour more than anything. If you ask any kid whether or not they want to captain their country, it’s one of the wildest dreams they can imagine. I can use my experience to help the rest of the team as well.”
In response to a question about individual goal targets, Bale, who has netted 36 times in his 98 appearances for Wales, said his primary focus is on achieving success with his country.
“It would be nice to get to 40 I guess, it’s the closest round number,” he said.
“I played my first 25 games at left-back, so it doesn’t quite help the stats. It’s about trying to help the country to success, inspiring youngsters and doing as well as we can.”
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