Bale signs new deal

Published on 28/06/2012 00:00

GARETH Bale is determined to propel Tottenham back into the Champions League after signing a new four-year contract.

Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester City were linked with a move for Bale, but he has extended his stay at White Hart Lane by a further season until 2016. The 22-year-old Wales winger made his decision despite Tottenham’s failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Instead, he wants to ensure managerless Spurs are restored to Europe’s elite competition for the 2013/14 campaign.

“The club is progressing and I want to be a part of that, so it was great to get the deal done,” said Bale. “I’ve been here for five years now and I’ve enjoyed every minute. The fans have been great to me and I’d love to repay them

“I want to play my part in trying to get us back into the Champions League – where we belong.

“We have a good, young squad and we need to work together to get back on the biggest stage.”

Bale’s decision to stay is a significant coup for Spurs, who are in a state of flux following the departure of Harry Redknapp last week. Former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas is reportedly close to succeeding Redknapp after edging France coach Laurent Blanc for the post.