Bale: Long throws an extra weapon

Gareth Bale says his long throws could become an extra weapon in Wales’ armoury after terrorising Austria’s defence with a series of deliveries into the box during Thursday’s 2-2 World Cup qualifying draw.

One of the Real Madrid forward’s throw-ins led to Wales’ second – a Kevin Wimmer own goal – in Vienna and he caused panic on numerous other occasions with ball in hand.

And Bale – better known for his prowess with the ball at his feet – has no reservations about adding dangerous throw-ins to his already well-stocked attacking arsenal.

“I’ll see what the manager says,” he told reporters on Saturday. “If it’s something that can help us win the game or get something from the game like it did in Vienna, then perfect – we’ll use it.

“I suppose it’s another weapon we’ve got and, if we need to use it, we’ll use it.”

Thursday’s draw sees Wales level on points with Austria, Serbia and the Republic of Ireland at the top of Group D ahead of Sunday’s clash with Georgia in Cardiff.

“These days there’s no easy games in international football, everybody knows that,” he added. 

“Obviously the point in Vienna was very well earned. It was a great point for us and it could be crucial at the end of the campaign.

“But just because we had a good point over there, we can’t afford to slip up against anybody, no matter who it is.

“We’ll be going into every game trying to get the three points as normal.”