Gareth Bale is back at Tottenham Hotspur.
The Wales international sealed a return from Real Madrid on loan in the summer, finally returning after his exit in 2013.
He is not yet at his peak but the winger has already found himself among the goals, scoring the winner in the 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
After seeing his header hit the back of the net, it was notable to see Bale peel away with a broad grin etched across his face; this appeared to be a genuinely happy player in his element.
Of course, during his time at Real Madrid, he was routinely mocked by supporters and the press alike, mainly for playing golf regularly and for apparently failing to learn Spanish.
It’s remarkable to consider when one views his trophy cabinet; during his time in Spain, he won La Liga twice, the Champions League four times, the Spanish Cup, the Spanish Super Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup four times and the UEFA Super Cup on three occasions.
But he seems to be happier now he is back in north London, and left-back Sergio Reguilon has corroborated that, insisting that he is adapting to life in England once again, and explaining that the language barrier has now been removed.
Sport Witness carries the interview from El Chiringuito, in which he said: “Bale sometimes even acts as a translator for some specific things. He is much more comfortable speaking English with all his colleagues, it shows a lot. I see him happier, it’s the matter of being comfortable in a team.
“The fundamental part has been the language. Here, he talks to all his teammates. In Madrid, he was more afraid of failing with the language. The change, for him, has been very positive.”
GIVEMESPORT’S Harry Sherlock says…
Bale has not yet reached his full potential since his return but it seems he is getting there slowly.
His goal against Brighton was almost certainly a preview of what is to come, and he now has the international break in which he can work on his fitness and potentially return to peak condition.
Spurs will need him too, as they play Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal in succession in the Premier League.
That he is happy and thriving is central to him retaining his focus and his form.
This can only be a good thing.