Ancelotti expects derby return for Bale



The Italian is hopeful the Welshman will be fit to
face Atletico Madrid on Saturday, but praised Isco
and Angel di Maria in the former Tottenham man's
absence
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is confident that
Gareth Bale will be match fit in time for the derby
against Atletico Madrid on Saturday.
The world-record signing was in line to make his home
debut for Madrid in their 4-1 win over Getafe on
Sunday, but was forced to withdraw from the side after
feeling discomfort in his leg during the warm-up.
"Bale had a small problem when he was warming up.
It's not an injury. He just didn't feel comfortable,"
Ancelotti explained to reporters.
"He was disappointed because he was very excited to
play.
"I don't know if he can play on Wednesday [against
Elche] because it's difficult for a player to be ready in
three days, but I think he will be ready for Saturday's
match.
"We are working to improve Bale's fitness because he
didn't have a good pre-season."
The Welshman underwent further examination on
Monday to determine the extent of the knock, with the
club confirming a minor muscle problem in his left
thigh.
"After the tests carried out today on Gareth Bale at the
Sanitas La Moraleja hospital, fatigue in the left thigh
muscle was found. It will be treated," a statement on
the Madrid website reads.
Ancelotti then went on to speak about Isco and Angel di
Maria, praising the former’s overall talent and the
latter’s excellent work ethic after their impressive
displays in Sunday's win.
"Isco arrived here with a lot of personality. It's difficult
to play here but he is very talented," he added.
"Di Maria is a unique player. He works a lot for the
team, he defends and assists the strikers too."
Two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and one apiece for
Pepe and Isco saw Ancelotti's side claim all three points
at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday, moving them back to
within two of Barcelona at the top of La Liga after five
games.

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