• Premier League

Wenger admits huge Bale mistake

ESPN staff
June 4, 2013
Gareth Bale was named PFA Player and Young Player of the Year this season © Getty Images
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Arsene Wenger has admitted he made a "huge mistake" when passing up the chance to sign Gareth Bale - because Arsenal already had two left backs at the club.

Bale began his professional career at Southampton before signing for the Gunners' fierce North London rivals Tottenham in May 2007, where the 23-year-old has since progressed to become one of the Premier League's most dangerous players.

Wenger looked at Bale when monitoring Theo Walcott's progress at Saints but has revealed that, in hindsight, he missed a glorious opportunity to capture the winger's signature.

"We didn't take him as we had Ashley Cole and Gael Clichy and didn't want another left-back," Wenger told The Sun.

"I must confess it was a huge mistake as he can play in midfield. He struggled at the start at Tottenham, then they moved him to midfield and he has done exceptionally well.

"The career of a player sometimes depends on playing in the right position."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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