Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane reveals what he told Gareth Bale before he netted just 12 minutes into his first match for three months against Espanyol
Galacticos chief welcomed back the Welsh forward having not played since November, with the former Spurs man scoring
REAL MADRID boss Zinedine Zidane has revealed what he told Gareth Bale before he stepped out for his first match in nearly three months, saying: "Just enjoy yourself."
Welsh forward Bale, 27, had been missing since November due to an ankle tendon injury.
With Saturday's clash against Espanyol evenly poised at 1-0 with 20 minutes to play, Zidane threw Bale into the mix... and he scored after just 12 minutes to seal a crucial win.
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The former Tottenham man picked up the ball near the halfway line before running and running before unleashing a low, powerful shot into the bottom corner.
After the victory, when asked how he inspired Bale, Zidane said: "All I told him before the substitution was to go out and enjoy himself.
"Gareth is Gareth. He is a special player, different to the others.
"I was glad about his return and, above all, happy for him to feel like a football player again after spending three months away from the pitch.
"He is very happy and was really eager to return. We are all excited he is back and he has returned in the best way possible."
However, Zidane did say that he would not be relying on individuals as they continue their charge towards yet another La Liga title.
He added: "We have 24 very good players who are happy to be able to help the team when their moment comes.
"It is important that they feel that way. We will have many games and will need them all."
The Galacticos are now four points clear at the top of La Liga, with a game in hand over second-placed Barcelona.