Gareth Bale is on the BENCH for Los Angeles FC’s MLS Cup final showdown with Philadelphia Union as Wales captain looks to get some much-needed minutes after injury and with …
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Gareth Bale was named on the substitutes’ bench for Los Angeles FC’s MLS Cup final game against Philadelphia Union Saturday afternoon.
The Wales captain’s move to the United States has not gone according to plan, with just two starts under his belt since his shock switch to LA on a one-year deal.
One of the aims of the surprise transfer was to get some regular game-time ahead of Qatar but Bale has not played a full 90 minutes at all Stateside.
Gareth Bale was named on the substitutes’ bench for Los Angeles FC’s MLS Cup final clash
In the MLS regular season the 33-year-old attacker featured off the bench on 10 occasions
In the MLS regular season the 33-year-old featured off the bench on 10 occasions but his playoff time has been hindered by a leg injury.
Bale has not played in the playoffs as the rest of the team overcame LA Galaxy and then Austin FC to be crowned Western Conference champions.
The attacker will be hoping to make an impact off the bench and get some much-needed minutes in the tank against Eastern Conference victors Philadelphia at the Banc of California Stadium.
He last played on October 2, albeit just five minutes of LAFC’s 2-1 win over Portland Timbers.
Prior to that he turned out for Wales in two matches as they geared up for the showpiece tournament later this month.
Los Angeles FC fans march outside of Banc of California Stadium ahead of Saturday’s game
Bale’s career has been hampered by injuries but some of his best performances have been in a Wales shirt.
He was completely frozen out at Real Madrid but continued to deliver for his country when called upon.
LAFC general manager John Thorrington said Bale’s move has not been a failure.
‘He’s frustrated by the injuries and his inability to participate more,’ he said.
‘But we went into the situation eyes wide open, we knew the risks that we were taking.
‘What I will give Gareth utmost credit for is how professional he is.’
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