Rio Ferdinand today claimed anyone who compares Gareth Bale to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi “doesn’t know football”.
Bale’s marvellous run of form for Tottenham, in which he has scored eight goals in his last six games including a spectacular late winner against West Ham on Monday, has led to comparisons with La Liga’s finest.
But Manchester United defender Ferdinand, who was beaten for pace by Bale when the Welshman scored in the 3-2 win at Old Trafford last September, claims the 23-year-old has to deliver matchwinning displays over a longer period of time before being considered among the world’s best.
Ferdinand wrote on Twitter: “People mentioning Bale in the same breath as Cristiano + Messi really don’t know football! Bale has been 1 of best 2 in PL this year but he is not on CR7 + Messi’s level yet . . . he carries on doing what he is doing for 2/3yrs then there can be a debate.
“Bale showed me a clean pair of heels once this year so I’m in good position to judge! CR7 + Messi have been on another planet for 4-5yrs.”
Meanwhile, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has challenged his players to extend their 12-point lead at the top of the table, with three of his side’s next four games at home. He said: “We’re hopeful we can take full advantage of this spell.”
