Giggs admits struggle to find effective role for Bale

Ryan Giggs admitted he has faced “a juggling act” in trying to find an effective role for Gareth Bale in his Wales side after watching the Real Madrid forward struggle in a 1-0 Euro 2020 qualifying defeat against Hungary.

Bale missed Wales’ best opportunity of the game, firing tamely at Hungary goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi when the ball arrived at his feet 12 yards from goal, and Mate Patkai punished his wastefulness by scoring the winner 10 minutes from time.

After opting to play Dan James as a lone striker while Bale started on the left wing, Giggs said the forward’s morale was not a problem during training despite the 29-year-old having endured a difficult season in LaLiga.

“He is disappointed like all of us with the two games,” Giggs told reporters when asked about Bale.

“I have said before, in the training camp he was great, about the place he has been great. It’s difficult fitness wise having not played for a long time and then that short turnaround.

“The way he plays as well, those high-intensity sprints. It’s difficult. But he’s been fine around the place, no problem.

“It’s always a bit of a juggling act trying to find where Gareth can be effective. We have so many players who can play off the right or number 10.

“Gareth has shown over the last few years he can play up front, number 10, off the right. It’s my job to try and get his best position and to get the other players in their best positions as well.”

61′ | 0-0