Spurs hit out at x-rated tackle

Andre Villas-Boas last night blasted Charlie Adam and urged him to aplogise for the x-rated tackle on Gareth Bale that overshadowed last night's goalless draw in the United States.

Villas-Boas exchanged angry words with the Liverpool midfielder after he had hauled down the Tottenham winger early in the friendly clash. Bale – who hit the headlines after his Olympic snub – left the ground in a protective boot.

The Welshman, left writhing in agony and holding his ankle following the 18th-minute tackle, was a passenger for the rest of the first half before being replaced at half-time.

The challenge sparked an angry response from Bale's team-mates and the Tottenham bench, led by Villas-Boas.

These two players have history after Bale sustained a serious ankle injury and was carried off after clashing with Adam in May 2011.

Villas-Boas said: "I think it is a very nasty challenge from Charlie. The player is gone and he comes in from behind on Gareth's ankle. I did not know the previous history between the two. I know now. Charlie came to me and said something about the challenge. I can accept but I think he should go to the player to say sorry. Because if the player escapes hospital he is very lucky. I can never doubt Charlie's integrity but it is a very nasty challenge. He is not OK. He is so-so."