Bale is upset by the departure of Benitez, admits Zidane as he greets world's most expensive player in Real dressing room

Real Madrid's new manager Zinedine Zidane says he accepts that Gareth Bale was against the sacking of Rafa Benitez but reassured him that he remains a vital part of his plans. 'I understand that Gareth could be upset by Rafa's departure because he was a very important coach in his career,' the new manager said. 'But he is going to receive the same affection from me. He is fundamental for the

team and what he has been doing of late for us on the pitch is phenomenal. He will have all my support so that he continues to play well for us.' Asked if he would persist with the BBC front-three of Bale, Benzema, and Cristiano Ronaldo, Zidane was emphatic: 'Yes the very clear idea that we have is that we will play with the three strikers.'