Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Gareth-Bale-c14422 against diving allegations, and has described the player as a ‘diamond’.
Ginola believes the player’s growing reputation as a diver is unfair, and claims that the whole thing is blown out of proportion by the media.
The Welshman received his second booking in a row in the 0-3 win over Fulham last weekend as he went down following a Sid Sidwell challenge.
The player had previously been booked for simulation in the 2-1 victory over http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Liverpool-c39809. Bale however denied all diving claims, and insisted that he never went down to ground without contact.
The player’s reputation for simulation and diving has been targeted by the media, who according to Ginola, it takes away attention from his ability.
The former Tottenham player believes that it is unfair that Bale has become the target of such criticism and believes the yellow card in the Fulham game ‘was a little bit harsh’. Ginola also said that such remarks overshadow the player’s talent and ability
as a footballer and divert attention away from his performances.
Speaking to Welsh media, Ginola said:
“This debate really annoys me. The kid is doing so well. He shouldn’t carry this on his shoulder. I don’t understand why we put pressure on him with false ideas. It’s unfair.”
Replays suggest that there had been definite contact with Sidwell in the 0-3 Fulham victory, and Ginola believes the yellow card was unfair. He believes the referees should protect players rather than punish them for challenges from other players. He also
claimed that it becomes difficult for players to shake off such incidents and it affects their performance.
Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas had also said after the game that Bale only protected himself and tried to avoid the challenge, hence going to the ground. He said Bale's pace is also a reason why he often falls down easily than other players.
Ginola agreed with the Portuguese manager and added:
“You don’t need a big tackle to go down. A little push would be enough to lose the balance. Football is about entertainment. When you have players like that who entertain you week in, week out, you have to protect that. It’s so precious."
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