Gareth Bale says he is enjoying feeling loved again, following his loan move from Real Madrid to Tottenham Hotspur.
Bale left Madrid, where he became increasingly isolated after falling out of favour with manager Zinedine Zidane, to join Spurs on a season-long loan deal in September.
The switch saw the Wales international move back to the club he originally left for the Spanish capital in a then-world record £85million transfer in 2013.
Although he is still searching for full fitness, Bale has made a positive impression for Jose Mourinho’s side, scoring one goal and registering one assist in six appearances so far.
"It’s nice to be back playing, nice to be at a place where I’m wanted, I feel loved," the 31-year-old said ahead of Wales’ Nations League clash with Finland on Wednesday.
"I'm just getting my fitness back and being back playing is what makes every footballer happy.
"I feel like I’m in a good place at the moment, there's still more to come, more to improve, and I'm looking forward to it.”
Bale has re-joined Spurs at a good time, with the form of Harry Kane and Son Heung-min reducing the pressure on him to produce in front of goal.
Kane and Son have scored 17 Premier League goals between them already this season, helping fire Tottenham to second place in the Premier League table after eight games.
Their partnership up front has allowed Bale time to settle in and find his feet after struggling for regular game time under Zidane.
"It does take a bit of getting used to, the body getting back into rhythm of playing every few days,” he added. “You get a little bit more stiff than usual, but the more games I’m playing, the better the body is adapting.
"It's going to take a little bit of time still but I’m on the right path and I'm enjoying playing again.
"I still need to get a little fitter and sharper but I'm getting there. It’s been six weeks since I came back.”
Bale will return to Spurs after Wales’ Nations League group game against Finland on Wednesday and could feature in Saturday’s Premier League home game against Manchester City.
