Zidane defends Bale after flag criticism

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SHOWS: MADRID, SPAIN (NOVEMBER 22, 2019) (REUTERS - ACCESS ALL)

1. (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) REAL MADRID COACH, ZINEDINE ZIDANE, TALKING ABOUT GARETH BALE, SAYING:

"I believe he can (become a decisive player again). He's an important player and he has always proved it. When he is injury free; he is a very, very important player."

2. WHITE FLASH

3. (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) REAL MADRID COACH, ZINEDINE ZIDANE, TALKING ABOUT MARTIN ODEGAARD, SAYING:

"Good I see he's playing well. He is playing in the Spanish league in a very good team that we face tomorrow. I've seen him doing well since the beginning of the season, playing well and adding many things to the team."

STORY: Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane defended Gareth Bale from criticism as the fallout continued over the Welshman's decision to celebrate his country's qualification for Euro 2020 with a flag that suggested the club were not top of his priorities.

Bale danced with a flag reading 'Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order' after Wales sealed qualification for their second consecutive European Championships earlier this week.

The forward has struggled to win over critics since arriving in Spain in 2013, despite contributing to four Champions League trophies in that time.

While it all appeared good humoured, the media in the Spanish capital failed to see the funny side and implored the club to sever ties with the player they signed for 85 million pounds ($109.28 million) six years ago, accusing Bale of a lack of respect.