World Cup 2022: Gareth Bale’s Honest Answer About International Future

• Gareth Bale has refused to call it quits on his career despite a disappointing World Cup
• The Wales squad succumbed to a humbling 3-0 defeat against England on November 29
• Bale insists he will keep playing for his nation so long as they need him in their ranks

Gareth Bale has put rumours of his potential international retirement to bed, with a defiant statement after Wales’ 3-0 defeat to England.

The Welshmen needed to beat Gareth Southgate’s England to have any chance of coming out of Group B.

After a goalless first half, Wales completely collapsed in the second period, as a stunning Marcus Rashford brace and Phil Foden’s strike ensured the Three Lions finished top of Group B.

Bale answers the tough questions

After the match, the spotlight was typically on Bale, as many were curious as to where he stood as far as his international career was concerned.

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Because of the fact that he is 33 and considering his injury record, many expected the former Real Madrid man to angle towards hanging his boots.

However, as reported by Express Sport, Bale said he was willing to continue with the national team as long as he was needed.

"It's a difficult moment now obviously, but we go again," Bale told the BBC. "We have a qualifying campaign starting now again in March."

Bale spoke about the few months the team would be away from international football, and admitted their World Cup exit was disappointing.

"I hope so, yes," he replied when asked to confirm he would be involved at that stage.

What next for Wales?

Rob Page will have to put the World Cup disappointment behind him fast, as his side will begin preparations towards qualifying for the Euro 2024 in three months.

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In March 2023, Wales face back-to-back games against Croatia and Latvia, and are in a group that also has Armenia and Turkey. Only the top two teams in the group will make it to the tournament proper.

Marcus Rashford remembers late friend

Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on the reason behind the celebration, when Marcus Rashford scored against Wales from a free kick.

After opening the scoring from a thunderous set piece, Rashford resorted to a never-before-seen celebration, going down onto his knees and pointing to the sky with his eyes closed.

It has since been revealed the celebration is actually an emotional tribute to a friend, who recently lost his battle with cancer.