Luka Modric addresses 'sad' end to Gareth Bale's Real Madrid career and defends forward over unfair

Luka Modric has launched a staunch defence of Tottenham loanee Gareth Bale, declaring he was harshly treated at Real Madrid and rejecting suggestions he was a bad egg in the dressing room.

Bale starred alongside Modric following his 2013 world-record transfer from Spurs, where the pair also played together.

But during the latter stages of his Madrid career things turned sour, with supporters criticising the forward while the Wales star fell out with manager Zinedine Zidane.

It was also claimed Bale refused to learn the local language and refrained from socialising with teammates, but those suggestions were dismissed by Modric.

Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, the veteran playmaker said: "I have spent most of my professional career with Gareth.

"What I can say is that he is a spectacular guy.

"He is shy and what is said about Gareth is not fair. They judge him for the last few years and what he has done in Madrid is impressive.

"He spoke a little Spanish in the dressing room. In recent years a lot of things have come out and they forget everything he has done.

"Everyone has their own behaviour and the way of transmitting it.”

Defending his his old teammate's legacy, he added: "People quickly forget what Bale has done.

"Gareth didn't socialise much, but in the dressing room he was fine. I am sorry that many forget everything what he has done."

In Bale's seven years at the club he helped Madrid to four Champions League titles, playing a pivotal role in the 2014, 2016 and 2018 finals.

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