Joe – Bale Is One Of The World’s Best

Joe Allen insists that Gareth Bale is one of the best players in the world as the Swans prepare to come face to face with him this afternoon

Allen told the Evening Post “I’ve known him for two or three years, since I’ve been in the Wales squad, and everyone knows my opinion

“He’s one of the best players in the world and has proved that over the past year.

“I definitely rate him that highly, especially when you consider how young he is.

“He’s got the footballing world at his feet. He’s got so many attributes — pace, power, a great shot — and over the past few seasons he’s really kicked on.

“There are two sides to it,” said 21-year-old Allen. “We’ll look forward to facing Gareth, but we also know he’s a danger.

“Hopefully we can keep him quiet as much as possible. But Spurs have got quality all over the pitch.”