Wales manager Chris Coleman has insisted that Gareth Bale can handle criticism of his performances for Real Madrid.
Despite remaining a key player in Carlo Ancelotti's side, Bale has been singled out by some Spanish media this season, and he was in the spotlight once again following Saturday's 4-0 defeat to fierce rivals Atletico Madrid.
However, Coleman believes that Bale's form since arriving in the Spanish capital in the summer of 2013 is proof that he can handle the pressure.
"He's the most expensive player in the world and they're on his case but he'll be fine," the attacker's international manager told reporters.
"If you're going to go to the biggest club in the world for the biggest fee in the history of football you've either got the mentality to get on with it and not get caught up in it or let it engulf you and affect you.
"I know which one applies to Gareth - but it's just Madrid and the expectations there."
Bale and his teammates will look to return to top form against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday.
Callum Mulvihill
