Gareth Bale is no diver says former Tottenham winger David Ginola
Welsh winger was booked at weekend for simulation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tottenham Hotspur's Welsh winger Gareth Bale is a 'diamond' who should be protected rather than branded a diver, according to the club's former wide man David Ginola.
Bale has been in superb form for club and country this season but some of his recent displays have been marred by yellow cards for apparent simulation.
He has been booked in Tottenham's last two games - Saturday's 3-0 win at Fulham when he tumbled rather theatrically after slight contact by Steve Sidwell and last week's victory at home to Liverpool.
However, Ginola, who played more than 100 games for Tottenham, said Bale should not be judged harshly.
"When you get a reputation it's really (hard) to get rid (of)," Ginola, told the BBC.
"It's really easy when you run that fast with that pace on the pitch at players - you don't need a big tackle to go down. A little push would be enough to lose the balance.
"When you have players like that who entertain you week in, week out you have to protect that. It's so precious.
"You have to take care of them because they are little diamonds in a league like the English Premier League.
"I thought he was a diamond when I saw him play against Inter Milan and score three goals (in 2010). He is special."
Bale's six league goals and numerous assists have helped Tottenham climb to fourth in the Premier League although he injured his hamstring against Fulham and faces a fortnight on the sidelines.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments