Gareth Bale defended against booing Real Madrid fans

Gareth Bale has been defended by Real Madrid team-mate Casemiro after sections of the home crowd were heard booing the Wales forward during Wednesday’s 3-0 Champions League win against Apoel Nicosia.

It was the second game in a row that sections of the crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu have jeered Bale, who has only scored once in six appearances so far this season.

But that behaviour from some supporters is something his team-mate believes must stop.

"He was a very strong player for us and I hope he continues to be so," Casemirop told Spanish newspaper Marca.

"With the quality he has, things will be going well for him one day.

"We try to protect the players we have, we are always defending our own.

"It shows that we are a family. I defend my team-mates as if they were my family and I am with them until the end."