Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale doubtful for El Clasico

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has emerged as a doubt for the La Liga showdown with Barcelona later this month.

During the closing stages of Wales' 1-1 draw with Croatia on Sunday, Bale picked up an issue with his calf, something which national team boss Ryan Giggs put down to cramp.

However, AS says that the attacker is struggling to shake off the problem, resulting in him being ruled out of Saturday's meeting with Mallorca.

The report adds that Bale's chances of featuring against Galatasaray in the Champions League are 'slim', leaving the 30-year-old in a race against time to prove his fitness.

Bale has netted twice from seven appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions during the current campaign.