English Premiership
Bale extends Tottenham stay
2012-06-27 16:56
London - Manager-less Tottenham Hotspur received a boost on Wednesday when Gareth Bale signed a new four-year contract with the club.
The Wales winger has committed himself to stay with the Premier League club until 2016, ending speculation over his future amid interest from both rival English teams and foreign sides
"The club is progressing and I want to be a part of that, so it was great to get the deal done," the 22-year-old Bale told Tottenham's official website after opting to stay at White Hart Lane.
Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid were among the clubs linked with Bale, who stayed at Tottenham despite the London club's failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Spurs finished fourth in the Premier League last season but missed out on Europe's leading club competition after London rivals Chelsea won the trophy.
"I've been here for five years now and I've enjoyed every minute," said Bale.
"The fans have been great to me and I'd love to re-pay them and do the very best for them.
"The club is progressing and I want to be a part of that, so it was great to get the deal done.
"I love the club and the fans and I want to play my part in trying to get us back into the Champions League - where we belong.
"We have a good, young squad and we need to work together to get back on the biggest stage."
Tottenham have been without a manager since Harry Redknapp was sacked earlier this month.