Bale injury fears allayed

Tottenham still expect Gareth Bale to be fit for next week's Champions League clash with AC Milan despite reports the winger had suffered a setback in his recovery from a back injury.

Bale has been out of action since picking up the injury in Spurs' 1-1 draw with Newcastle just over a fortnight ago. Reports on Wednesday afternoon had suggested Bale had felt a twinge in his back during his rehabilitation.

It is understood, however, that the Welshman is recovering well from the injury and is on schedule to be fit enough to travel to Italy for the first leg of Spurs' second-round clash, which takes place on Tuesday.