Isco defends Gareth Bale

Real Madrid midfielder Isco has defended under-fire teammate Gareth Bale, who received whistles from some sections of the Bernabeu during Saturday's 3-0 win over Espanyol.

The Welshman scored a stunning free kick in the first period, but was the subject of jeers in the second half after failing to pass to Cristiano Ronaldo in a one-on-one situation with the opposing goalkeeper.

"At the end of the day, players make decisions for themselves. Bale didn't see Cristiano," Isco told reporters.

"In the next game, he'll get another chance. He decided to shoot and missed, but these things happen in football."

Bale has been linked with a move away from the Spanish capital in recent weeks, with Manchester United said to be preparing a big-money offer next summer.