Bale is at the centre of a Real Madrid campaign to drive him out

When Eden Hazard is introduced by Real Madrid as their new golden boy today, it will be the latest message to Gareth Bale that he is an outcast.

Real, backed by a media campaign, have been trying to drive Bale out and while playing for Wales has usually been a refuge, it was not this week when he fluffed a good chance before Hungary scored the only goal of the Euro 2020 qualifier on Tuesday.

Adding to the picture of despondency was the sight of Bale trudging around with his shoulders hunched, arguing with the referee after he had put the ball into the net when offside. At the end of the game he cut an isolated figure.

Bale took a private flight after the