Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has defended team-mate Gareth Bale despite his negative portrayal in the Spanish media, saying neither his ability to speak Spanish nor his love of golf is a concern.
Bale, 30, has encountered frequent criticism during his six-year stay at the Santiago Bernabeu, where he has endured lengthy stints out injured and is regularly seen playing golf in his spare time.
Courtois told Sergio Fernandez of Marca that Bale "speaks better Spanish than people think." The Belgian added: "He could give an interview in Spanish perfectly well.