However, a succession of injuries - including a broken foot and a knee problem - have stalled Bale's progress in north London, while Redknapp preferred Benoit Assou-Ekotto at left-back in the first half of this season.

BBC: Gareth Bale will not leave Tottenham - Harry Redknapp

Bale's defensive colleague Chris Gunter, however, should have broken the deadlock in the 27th minute but the Tottenham full-back was denied by a last-ditch interception.

BBC: Wales 1-0 Azerbaijan