Rafa Benitez sacking: Gareth Bale will not be affected by Real Madrid change, says John Toshack

Former Real boss doesn't think the Wales international will be upset by the developments in Madrd

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale (Getty Images)

Former Real Madrid manager John Toshack has insisted Gareth Bale will not be unsettled at the Spanish club after manager Rafael Benítez was replaced by Zinedine Zidane.

The Spaniard was sacked after just six months in charge at the Santiago Bernabéu following the 2-2 draw with Valencia, a result which left them four points adrift of La Liga leaders Atlético Madrid.

A report by The Times on Tuesday suggested Bale was close with the former Liveprool and Napoli head coach and may be more inclined to leave Spain following the decision to relieve him of his duties.

“I don't see it affecting Gareth at all,” Toshack told BBC Sport.

“I don't see that as a problem. Benitez was up against it right from the off. Right from the minute he walked through the door something was not quite right. I don't think his face fitted.

“I think he'll be looking to take a bit of a rest season, probably until the end of this season and maybe look at something next pre-season.”

Wales international Bale joined Madrid for a world-record £85m from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 but has been linked with a return to England ever since, with Manchester United considered his most likely destination.