Why do the Spanish media appear to hate Gareth Bale so much? Spain-based expert reveals how it came to this

Gareth Bale is, to put it mildly, a hero of Welsh football. His brilliance, which was once again on full display during the 2-1 win over Austria on Thursday night, has set him above so many of his peers, elevating him to the status of a once-in-a-generation talent.

And yet, he remains the source of grave frustration, anger and, in some cases, outright hatred in some corners in Spain. On the day of what was one of his biggest games in a Wales shirt, one Spanish outlet labelled him a 'parasite' in what was arguably the most stinging attack on yet on the winger.

But why is Bale such a disliked figure in Spain? We asked Spain-based freelance football writer for a full lowdown.

Spanish TV show calls for Gareth Bale to be fired as argument breaks out live on air

I think it's important to point out that the 'parasite' comment was made by particular columnist rather than an actual newspaper. From my point of view as someone who works in the media, I don't think they should have published that story. It was just a targeted piece that has no place in what we do.

But this relationship has been getting more sour by the year, perhaps by the month. Gareth's previously stayed away from it. Perhaps it would have helped if he'd engaged with it at an earlier stage. Then again, I thought his response was totally warranted, if someone called me a parasite, I wouldn't take particularly well to it! Certainly not if I'd achieved what Gareth has. He's done brilliant things at Real Madrid, single-handedly winning games that have won them titles, Champions League etc.

He may be paid too much now based on his recent efforts, but that contract was also a reward for what he brought Real Madrid. You could probably argue he was actually