• World Cup qualifying

Bale in line to make Madrid debut

ESPN staff
September 9, 2013
Bale's fitness in question

Gareth Bale is in line to make his debut for Real Madrid on Saturday against Villarreal after a scan on his groin injury showed no damage.

He has also taken part in training for Wales and could start for his country against Serbia in their World Cup qualifier against Serbia.

Bale, who joined Madrid for a reported world-record fee of £86 million, was an unused substitute in Wales' defeat to Macedonia on Friday, and had a scan on Monday.

The former Tottenham star before the results was hopeful of being fit for Madrid's clash at the weekend.

"It's well-known I had a slight injury, which took me a bit of time, but I always wanted to be here in the white shirt of Madrid and hopefully I can get match time with Wales and come back fit. I'm hoping to be involved for the game with Villarreal," he said, adding that he does not expect to be guaranteed a regular spot in the side because of his transfer fee.

"I can't come in and just walk into the starting 11. I've always wanted to improve, and there's no reason that should stop now I'm here. I can't wait to get started," he said.

Bale stressed he wanted to play, saying: "I haven't had a lot of match time so that will help my fitness, as well as it being an honour to play for my country."

Some reports had indicated that Madrid would ask Wales to leave him out of their World Cup qualifiers against Macedonia and Serbia.

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