The 25-year-old has become a target for the Madrid press and supporters after the European champions’ recent dip in form.
One newspaper did not even give Bale a mark in their ratings for Sunday’s El Clasico defeat to Barcelona, while the Welshman’s car came under attack as he left Real’s Valdebebas training base after the game.
Bale has returned to his homeland to prepare for Saturday’s crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Israel, the Group B leaders, in Haifa.
And his team-mates insist the former Tottenham man has brushed off his difficult week and is ready to lead from the front at the Sammy Ofer Stadium.
“He’s the same as usual. He’s a world-class player who shows that in every minute in every session,” said Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen.
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Gareth Bale has been backed by his Wales team-mates
“It is great to have him here. I doubt the Israelis will be looking forward to facing him at the weekend.
“I don’t get the impression that Gareth is someone who is fazed by these sorts of things. It comes with the territory at a club like that. I doubt it has too much influence on him.”
Swansea full-back Neil Taylor hailed Bale’s leadership qualities, with the £85million man having been a vocal presence in Wales’ pre and post-match huddles during this campaign.
“Gareth is a passionate Welshman and he’s here every trip, he wants to do well and he’s desperate to get to a major tournament like the rest of us,” said Taylor.
“He obviously feels the onus is on him maybe, he’s one of the best players in the world and everyone knows that.
“He does the best he can every time he’s here and he tries to influence every game. He’s become really acclimatised to who is now and the influence he has on the teams. He has become a real leader with real drive.”
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