LOS ANGELES — Gareth Bale said he is still battling through fitness issues as he turns his attention to the World Cup after a dramatic game-saving cameo set up Los Angeles FC’s MLS Cup triumph.
The 33-year-old Wales captain once again demonstrated his habit of rising to the occasion, nodding home a 128th-minute equaliser to set up LAFC’s penalty shoot-out win.
Bale was brought on as a substitute early in extra time at the Banc of California Stadium in what was his first taste of competitive football for more than a month.
Bale, whose next game will be Wales’ World Cup opener against the United States in Qatar on November 21, admitted afterwards he was not yet 100 per cent after a recent leg injury.
And the former Real Madrid star acknowledged that preparing for the World Cup had been a mental struggle, learning to manage the anxiety of possibly suffering an injury that would force him out of the finals in Qatar.
“I’m feeling better and better as time goes on,” Bale said according to AFP. “I’ve had a few setbacks, and had a slight knock a few weeks ago which kept me out for 10 days. It’s just one of those things.
“It’s been difficult mentally now leading into the World Cup. You see now there’s so many players that are dropping out and now are missing the World Cup.
“It’s been difficult mentally and I’m sure it has been for a lot of players. For sure it’s been in the back of my mind to make sure I’m 100 per cent fit. Today I felt good enough to come on the pitch and help the team and I’m happy to see them lifting that trophy.”
Bale said he had spoken to Los Angeles coach Steve Cherundolo before the game and agreed he would be ready to play for “20-30 minutes” if needed.
“I’m not 100 per cent fit at the moment. I’m still coming back,” he said. “I have a few little issues like most players do. But I was able to come on for the last 20-30 minutes and give as much as I can and I came up with a goal to help the team and that’s what I’m here to do I guess.”
Cherundolo added that Bale could have played in last week’s Western Conference championship game if needed.
“It’s always the plan to put him on exactly for the reason he scored his goal,” Cherundolo said. “It’s a piece that we have on our roster that Philly didn’t have. And maybe that was the difference today.”
