As If He's Never Been Away: Bale Scores On Return

Welsh talisman Gareth Bale made his return to action for Real Madrid on Saturday, and got his name on the scoresheet in the process. 

Bale picked up an ankle injury in November and wasnt expected to return until next month, but after a week of training, the pacy winger found himself on the bench for the La Liga fixture against Espanyol. 

Madrid took the league in the first half through Alvaro Morata, making them look certain to strengthen their lead at the top of the league. Then, with twenty minutes left to play, Bale received a rapturous reception as he entered the pitch, to replace Morata. Shortly after, he doubled Madrid's lead, after latching on to a pass from Isco, before nestling it into the far corner.

This completed a perfect day for the Spanish giants, as one of their star players returned, they continued to lead the way in La Liga and they also set a record for scoring in 42 consecutive games, under the management of legend Zinedine Zidane.

Zidane praised "special player" Bale after the game, who he will be delighted to see his return to action, as Real Madrid look to turn what has been a strong season so far into silverware.

This is also good news for Wales, with Bale's early return strengthening their chances against Ireland in the World Cup qualifier next month.