Saints Boss Gives Bale Warning

Burley - 'We know he's going to go at some point, but our aim is to keep him as long as possible

Saints Boss George Burley has advised Gareth Bale to stay at saints until at least the summer for the good of his long term football development.

Speaking after Saints 2-0 away at QPR Burley said 'I've told Gareth I feel he needs to be here this season and next season, that would be ideal for his development,'

'I haven't changed my opinion. You can't beat playing first-team football for the development of a young kid.

'At a big club it's harder to get into the team, which is understandable.

'It's best for the player to be in this league, at a good club, where he can find his feet.

'Gareth doesn't want to go anywhere, certainly until the summer.

'We know he's going to go at some point, but our aim is to keep him as long as possible. No matter what he will be here until the end of the season.

'I've had all the speculation about players in the past. I had it with Kieron Dyer, Titus Bramble, Darren Bent, Darren Ambrose, Tom Huddlestone. It's part and parcel of football.

'But Gareth's still a young lad who needs nurturing. His parents and everyone are very pleased about the way he has progressed over the last few months.

'He works hard on the training ground and he's still learning. But I don't think there are many more exciting full-backs in the country.'


Bale has been linked with a move away from Saints time and time again over the last few weeks. But over the last couple of days the news coming out of St Marys has started sounding alot more promising that Bale will stay a Saint atleast for the now.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.