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Bale playing through pain barrier

Gareth Bale was on the score sheet in Tottenham's win over Manchester City © Getty Images

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Gareth Bale admits he is playing through pain in order to help Tottenham achieve their targets this season.

The 23-year-old is a candidate for both the PFA Player and Young Player of the Year awards after enjoying one of his best seasons for Spurs, netting a total of 23 goals.

Bale made his return to competitive action against Manchester City on Sunday after suffering ankle ligament damage in the Europa League quarter-final clash against Basel earlier in the month.

The Welshman played a vital part in Tottenham's 3-1 comeback victory over City after scoring the third goal to kill off their opponents.

With Tottenham fighting for a spot in next season's Champions League with London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea, Bale has revealed he is still suffering from the ankle problem, despite notching up his 14th goal in his last 16 outings.

"It was touch and go whether I was going to play - but thankfully I got through it okay," Bale said, according to the Sun, following the win over City. "It was a bit sore in the first half but I got more confident in the second half. It hurts but it's just about managing it and carrying on."

After coming from behind to defeat the reigning league champions, Bale is confident Spurs can finish the season in style.

"All three goals were important," he added. "The first gave us belief, the second killed them and the third one just sealed it so it was a great comeback.

"We showed great character and hopefully we can carry that on in the last five games. It shows the team spirit we have in the dressing room.

"We need to keep that character, team spirit and togetherness in the last five games and push for our objectives this season."

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