Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur: 'We were unaware of Gareth Bale recovery time'

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 26 July 2012

Tottenham Hotspur say that Gareth Bale was ruled out of Team GB without knowing the "recovery time" of his injury following the controversy over his fitness.

Tottenham Hotspur have released a statement defending Gareth Bale's inclusion in the North London side's pre-season squad, despite the Welshman's withdrawal from Team GB selection.

The 23-year-old became ineligible for the London 2012 Games after picking up an injury but managed to net a goal during a 1-1 draw with Los Angeles Galaxy in a pre-season friendly yesterday.

A statement from Tottenham said: "The club considers the recent comment and accusations regarding Gareth Bale's fitness relating to his non selection for Team GB's men's football team to be wholly unacceptable and unjustified.

"For the avoidance of any doubt and on a point of absolute clarity and transparency, Gareth sustained an injury as he built up his fitness ahead of joining up with Stuart Pearce's [Team GB] side. MRI scan reports were sent to the FA medical team on 29 June.

"He was subsequently not selected on the basis of this injury and the inability to predict recovery time."

Meanwhile, Team GB will take to the pitch at Old Trafford to go up against Senegal in their Olympics opener at 8pm today.