Bale no diver, says Redknapp

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has denied suggestions that winger Gareth Bale dives.

The Welshman came under scrutiny last week after falling down under the challenge of Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny to earn his side a penalty in the north London derby.

However, Redknapp insists the only reason why the winger is accused of simulation is because opponents struggle to deal with his pace and quick change of direction.

“I don’t think he dives,” Redknapp said. “I haven’t spoken to him about it and there is no need to. He gets kicked from pillar to post most Saturdays.”

Redknapp said Bale, like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, has to acknowledge that he will be on the receiving end of “rough treatment” from opposition players.

“I think you will find there is an awful lot of players who have been booked for chopping him down with cynical challenges this year, rather than him going down under no challenge,” he said.

“He takes some rough treatment, he gets chopped down an awful lot because he runs so quick and he changes direction so quickly.”

“He has to accept it. The great players do like Messi and Ronaldo.”

“I watch Spanish football every week and Messi gets chopped down and kicked but he gets up and gets on with it. He never misses a game.”

“Gareth is a great young player with a fantastic future and he has to accept that.”

“It doesn’t worry me. He is six foot tall and is built like Ronaldo. He is strong. He can take it.”

Spurs blew a two goal lead against the Gunners, eventually going down 5-2, but Redknapp said they had quickly put that result behind them as they prepare to face Manchester United on Sunday.

“They (the Tottenham players) have all moved on, they’ve played for their countries in the week. It’s done and dusted now,” Redknapp said. “That (5-2 loss to Arsenal) is history now, you’ve got to move on.”

“Manchester United are a great team, so you know what you’re in for. You’ve got to be at your best if you’re going to get a result.”

“We’re going to have to be at our very best if we’re going to get a result from the game. We’ve got a big chance. We’re a good team. They’re a top team, so are we. So it should be a great game.