Real Madrid director of institutional relations Emilio Butragueno has leapt to Gareth Bale’s defence following the 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad.
The Welshman was booed by a section of supporters at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, having come under fire in recent weeks after being accused of selfishness on the pitch.
Bale, 25, failed to put two relatively easy chances away against the Basques, yet Butragueno feels he is still a vital member of Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
“Bale had a real presence in the game and in the way the team played,” insisted the former Madrid striker to reporters.
“He could have got a few goals. Sometimes he gets it right and sometimes he doesn’t but the important thing it that he is very involved and creating chances.”
Opposition boss David Moyes also backed the former Tottenham Hotspur player to silence his critics.
“Bale had one or two chances that on another day he would score. He is such a good player and with him there is nothing to worry about.
“They didn’t need his goals against us but I’m sure he’ll come up with what’s needed on the day they do,” said Moyes.
