I could return to play for Tottenham - Gareth Bale

Bale, who left White Hart Lane for a world record fee last summer, is happily settled at Real Madrid after having won the Champions League in his first season at the Spanish giants.

But he has spoken of his love for Tottenham and potential desire to return to his former club once his adventure at the Bernabeu is over.

"Tottenham will always have a place in my heart," he told BT Sport. "I hope the fans still love me even though I’ve moved on.

"I love Spurs fans. You never know, I could come back one day.

"I hope they understand that obviously Real Madrid is a massive, massive club and that they respect my decision.

"From the moment Madrid put the offer in it was difficult. Tottenham was somewhere I felt so comfortable and so happy."