Gareth Bale should consider a Premier League return, say Soccer Saturday panel

Gareth Bale would benefit from the returning to the Premier League, according to the Soccer Saturday panel.

The Welshman has come in for a lot of criticism during his second season at Real Madrid having failed to repeat his exploits of the previous year.

He was booed again by the sections of the Bernabeu crowd as Carlo Ancelotti’s side were dumped out of the Champions League at the semi-final stage by Juventus leading to further speculation over the winger’s future.

“I would imagine he would be feeling this (criticism),” said Phil Thompson. “I think if he has another season like he has had this season I don’t think the money would be anywhere near the following (year).”

The former Liverpool captain also alluded to rumours suggesting that Bale could be part of a deal that would see David De Gea move to Madrid with the former Tottenham man moving to Old Trafford.

“The timing of it would be right to get a fair amount of money plus because of the De Gea link it seems like that’s going to happen,” he added.

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“I think it would work and he would relish the chance to come back to this country.”

Matt Le Tissier doubts whether Los Blancos would get their money back for Bale even if they did sell him this summer and that the situation facing 25-year-old is an unusual one.

“There are not many clubs who decide whether or not you go,” he explained. “It’s their decision.

“It would take a massive bid to get him away and I’m not sure they would get their money back for him.”

The decision is a simple one for Bale as far as Charlie Nicholas is concerned.

“If he’s unhappy playing he should leave,” said the ex-Arsenal star. “There’s nothing better than playing in a team when you’re happiest because you find your best.

“If you’re really unhappy in a playing role and he’s not given enough freedom he should leave.”

Should he take that option to move on to new pastures Paul Merson is sure he could be successful anywhere.

“I think he would fit any club in the world,” he said. “Why not Arsenal? You’re getting rid of Theo Walcott, you’ve got a load of money.”