Real Madrid president Florentino Perez insists Gareth Bale was a valued member of the team.

Bale leaves Real Madrid this month having experienced a diffcult past two years with the home support.

But Perez said on El Chiringuito: "He has been one of the great players that Madrid has had. Remember Kyiv, Valencia, Lisbon... He is a spectacular player. I have loved him very much and the other day on the football pitch everyone applauded him.

"I don't think (Bale received too much criticism). I don't think so. They criticise me a little here, because you haven't brought anyone who criticises me..."

Florentino also spoke of Eden Hazard's time with the club.

"It's just that he's had very bad luck. Now it seems that they've taken away his plate and he feels better. He's very excited about this year and we're going to see it."