Gareth Bale returning to Spurs would be 'brilliant' says pundit
Gareth Bale will be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting his fourth Tottenham shirt number. He is now at Hotspur Way putting the finishing touches on his return to Spurs and at some point this afternoon, he is expected to make a decision on his new shirt number. Here are his options...
This was the number that Bale wore for Tottenham between the 2008/09 season and 2011/12.
In his younger days, Bale was a flying full-back before he was encouraged to play further up the field due to his blistering acceleration and shooting ability.
This shirt has sentimental value to him but you would imagine that fellow new signing Sergio Reguilon has his sights set on the No 3.
Given the other options that are available, Bale is likely to let the Spaniard take this one.
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No 11 - Taken
Bale would need a favour from Erik Lamela if he wants to return to his old shirt.
The 31-year-old wore the No 11 shirt in his final season (2013/14) at White Hart Lane before joining Real Madrid.
It was inherited by Argentine Lamela, who was one of the names brought in to replace Bale.
It's unlikely that he will ask his new team-mate to change given that the deal is an initial loan.
Bale also wore the No 11 shirt during his seven years at Real Madrid.
Gareth Bale shirt number: Bale wore the No 11 in his final year at Tottenham (Image: GETTY)
Gareth Bale shirt number: Bale has also worn the Spurs No 3 shirt which is available (Image: GETT)
No 16 - Vacant
Bale's first ever Tottenham shirt number is up for grabs and is an option for the forward.
He wore the shirt for the 2007/08 season after joining the club from Southampton.
It may not be the frontrunner but hypothetically it makes a lot of sense given Tottenham's transfer exploits.
Reguilon could take the No 3 and Spurs still want another striker before October 5, the No 9 would then be free for the arrival of a new centre-forward.