Spanish media hails Bale as 'Prince of Goals' after first La Liga treble

Real Madrid's record signing Gareth Bale has been hailed as the 'Prince of Goals' by the Spanish press after his hat trick and assist in the weekend's 4-0 La Liga win at home to Real Valladolid.

According to Stuff.co.nz, with prolific Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo sidelined by injury, Bale stepped up to net his first treble since his 100 million-euro move from Tottenham Hotspur and coach Carlo Ancelotti suggested the Wales winger's adaptation period was over.

Bale's pre-season preparations were disrupted by the protracted negotiations over his transfer and he then picked up a minor muscle strain but now appears to be back to full fitness and eager to impress the Real faithful, the report said.

Sports daily As acclaimed Bale on their front page on Sunday as 'Prince of Wales' (Principe de Gales), while rival newspaper Marca went for the headline 'Prince of Goals' (Principe de Goles), the report added.

However, Bale still has some way to go to match Ronaldo's incredible goal-scoring feats and the former Manchester United forward remains the undisputed king of the dressing room and a hero to the notoriously demanding Real fans, the report further said.

Real great Alfredo Di Stefano said that Bale had not yet adapted completely.