Graeme Souness has hit out at Gareth Bale despite the Tottenham forward's brace in a 4-1 win against Crystal Palace.
After a disappointing start to his loan spell at Spurs, Bale has now scored six goals and created three assists in his last six games in all competitions.
And after his starring role against the Eagles, Bale attempted to explain why it has taken so long for him to get back to his best.
"It's taken a bit of time, but I'm experienced enough to know it takes patience," he told Sky Sports.
"Time will tell (if he can reach his very best), but I'm not 21 anymore. Your body changes over time and I'm having to learn that."
Souness, however, appeared far from impressed with Bale's words, and said he still expects more from the player.
"We had a conversation about him a few weeks ago," Souness said. "If I'm him at that stage, I'm knocking on the manager's door telling him I'm ready.
"We were getting pictures of him sitting on the bench looking uninterested, not bothered and joking with subs.
"We've got 11 games to go and he's been here all season. I just expected more from him.
"I'm an enormous fan of Gareth Bale when he's playing football. But I want to see more of him.
"Unless he's got a fundamental problem...those words he came out with at the end there about not being 21 and your body getting tired - we've all been 31!
"Your career finished too early when you're a football player. I'd like to see more enthusiasm from him."
After discussion about his fitness issues, Souness added: "I'll go back to his spell on the bench. On the bench would suggest you're fit to take part in some of the game.
"But he wasn't. He was starting on the bench and finishing on the bench. If I'm him, I'd be knocking on the manager's door. He should have his angry head on and say 'let me show you what I can do'."
