The evolution of Gareth Frank Bale

What sets apart Bale’s Player of the Year award from those of Ginola or Klinsmann’s? What is it about the two latter awards that, whilst making me reminisce on what achingly wonderful players they both undoubtedly were (and probably still are) just don’t offer the same kind of moment of almost paternal pride that this weeks awards did?

The answer is simple although layered; Ginola and Klinsmann joined us as established players, one a world class forward who had almost won the lot. Ginola was a superstar for Newcastle, and the Premier League. When the pair signed for us, they did so with the weight of expectation, realised expectation but nonetheless we knew what was in store to some degree.

Bale seems to me, and perhaps to others, as the child who grew into a man in front of our eyes. From the floppy haired, scrawny kid who burst onto the scene on the south coast, signed with the word that he would be special – we have heard these words before countless times at The Lane – it was met with a healthy side serving of ‘we’ll wait and see’.

That Bale began life at Spurs well is without question, goals came along, not least against Arsenal but with the slight frame and the eagerness of a puppy chasing a balloon, came the injuries. His Ankle and foot especially prone, his progress was hindered; mutterings from the stands were that he wouldn’t make it, that he was brittle.

Nevermind, file Bale under B along with Blondel, please.

But then we played Peterborough in the FA Cup – Benoit was injured and due to travel to the ACN – Bale unpacked his bags and used the ticket for Nottingham as a bookmark. I was fortunate enough to have tickets in the west lower that day, Bale played a blinder down the left flank, and a flicker emerged among those there that day.

In the intervening years, Bale has grown in stature, size and importance. Physically he appears as imposing as Ronaldo, long limbed, lightening quick and, despite the occasional decision to count blades of grass, he can take a challenge. Furthermore, he craves responsibility, not a bad trait when that craving provides moments like those at Upton Park, against Lyon or any number of matches where Bale has been the decisive factor.

This is an award that Bale deserves but I would also suggest that many of those in the stands, watching from home or listening on the radio deserve too, because in Bale Tottenham have a player that we can talk of in the same breath as Hoddle, Waddle, Ardiles, Klinsmann, and who knows, possibly along with those whose success so long ago lingers like a glorious shadow over the hallowed turf of White Hart Lane.

Well done, Gareth – you’ve earned it.

[author name=”Dan Mallerman” avatar=”https://si0.twimg.com/profile_images/2459544540/ektvnu6csn5nvcaq07s4.jpeg” twitter=”DanMallerman” tag=”DanMallerman[/linequote]