Rafael Benitez to give Gareth Bale free role this season

Rafael Benitez has revealed that he is ready to offer Gareth Bale a free role this season, as the Real Madrid boss looks to get the best out of the winger.

The Welshman is often targeted with criticism from the home support and was booed during games last season, and the 26-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu as a result.

However, in a bid to boost the former Tottenham Hotspur man's confidence, Benitez has been playing Bale behind Karim Benzema in a No.10 role during the pre-season.

"Bale behind the striker? I like to give freedom within an order. Like that we are more unpredictable," the Spaniard told reporters.

Bale scored 17 goals in all competitions for Madrid last season.