Andre Villas-Boas expects Gareth Bale to stay away on Sunday

Tottenham Hotspur manager Andre Villas-Boas has said that he does not expect Gareth Bale to make an appearance at White Hart Lane on Sunday for his side's match against Swansea City.

Bale, who is believed to be close to sealing a big-money move to Real Madrid, has not featured for Spurs since scoring in their 1-1 pre-season friendly draw with Swindon Town on July 16.

As he is again not being considered for selection this weekend, Villas-Boas says that the Welsh winger has no obligation to show up.

"We have no rules for or obligation for players not selected to be on the bench or in the stadium so I don't expect Gareth to be seen at the club," Villas-Boas told reporters.

Swansea have been beaten on each of their last five visits to Spurs.