by Jordan Jones
GARETH Bale says he is doubtful he’ll complete a full game in both of Wales’ crucial European Championship qualifiers.
The 30-year-old has travelled to Baku, despite not featuring for Real Madrid since Wales’ 1-1 draw with Croatia in October.
The Real Madrid star has been captain for Wales in their recent Championship qualifiers and has scored in his last two.
Wales will require two victories against Azerbaijan and Hungary if they are to automatically qualify for the European Championships next summer.
“For me, it was a no-brainer: if I’m fit to play then I’ll give it my all. My fitness, I’ve done my rehab, done a full weeks’ training,” said Bale.
“Obviously there are two big games and I’m not sure if I’ll play the two whole 90 minutes but I’ll do my best to play as much as I can.
“I’ve done as much as I can in terms of trying to get back as quick as I can.
GARETH BALE 🏴
Week of training ✅
On Ramsey’s return ⚽
On Azerbaijan 🇦🇿Azerbaijan v @Cymru – Saturday, 16:30 on @S4C 📺 pic.twitter.com/M4cxIKx1vr
— ⚽ Sgorio (@sgorio) November 15, 2019
“I’ve done a full weeks’ training and we’ve done 11 v 11 to try and get some match fitness in me. I’m as prepared as I can be. The only thing I can do is give my best, which I always do.”
Sweating on the fitness of Bale, Wales will be without trio Danny Ward, Neil Taylor and Tom Lawrence. Ward and Taylor have withdrawn due to personal reasons whilst Lawrence will not take part due to illness.
Joe Rodon and Jonny Williams are already absent due to injury.
Journalist Phil Cadden has predicted a probable team of: Hennessey; Roberts, Lockyer, Mepham, Davies; Ampadu, Ramsey, Wilson; Bale, Moore, James.