Eni Aluko believes that Wales can afford to rest talisman Gareth Bale in their next World Cup match against Iran. Wales drew 1-1 with the USA in their opening fixture in Qatar, with Bale scoring a critical equaliser for his side from the penalty spot. This was Bale’s 41st goal in 109 appearances for the national side and it was fitting that the former Real Madrid star became the ​​first Welsh goalscorer in a World Cup since 1958. Aluko, who was a pundit on ITV’s coverage of the match, credited Wales for "punching above their weight” in major tournaments and stressed that she thought manager Rob Page could afford to change things up against Iran. CHECK OUT OUR WORLD CUP HUBGMS World Cup Hub

What did Aluko say about Bale? 

Bale is 33 now and currently plays for Los Angeles FC in the MLS. 

His fitness had been questioned in the build-up to the tournament and Aluko ostensibly thinks Wales need to save his legs wherever possible. 

Speaking on ITV, Aluko said: "Wales can probably afford to rest Gareth Bale against Iran now." 

Given England thrashed Iran 6-2, Aluko seemingly believes that Wales have enough quality to get the job done without Bale and save him for what could prove to be a crunch game against England. 

VIDEO: Gareth Bale scores equaliser for Wales against USA

Do fans agree with Aluko? 

The majority of fans on social media appeared to disagree with Aluko’s thoughts. 

"No chance. He plays [in] every game just like he would want to anyway,” said one fan. 

Similarly, another stressed: “No chance, they need a better goal difference than [the] USA.”

Some did understand Aluko’s logic but stressed it would be a better idea to play Bale against Iran as it looks to be the more winnable game on paper. 

"It would make more sense to rest him against England,” they said. “They've got a chance of beating Iran and four points will probably do it providing they outscore USA.” 

Another echoed this idea and wrote: "I must admit, to me this makes no sense.  The Iran game is more critical than the England game.  If they managed to get a few goals and England beat the USA by a couple, Wales’ goal difference would be way better than the USA going into the last match.”

How is Group B shaping up so far? 

England’s convincing win means they currently top Group B on three points. 

Both Wales and the USA are level on one point apiece, with Iran bottom of the group. 

A win for Wales against Iran would take them to four points, while England will be through to the last 16 if they defeat the USA on Friday.

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