Gareth Bale

Tottenham have defended themselves during the Gareth Bale controversy

Tottenham have refuted speculation that they forced Gareth Bale to withdraw from the London 2012 Olympics.

The Welshman pulled out of the squad with a back injury but played and scored for Spurs on his return, one day before Team GB started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Senegal.

“The Club considers the recent comment and accusations regarding Gareth Bale’s fitness relating to his non selection for Team GB’s men’s football team to be wholly unacceptable and unjustified,” the statement read.

“For the avoidance of any doubt and on a point of absolute clarity and transparency - Gareth sustained an injury as he built up his fitness ahead of joining up with Stuart Pearce’s side. MRI scan reports were sent to the FA medical team on 29 June (2012).

“He was subsequently not selected on the basis of this injury and the inability to predict recovery time.

“This decision was not taken lightly and made only after consultation with Team GB’s medical team, who were in agreement after seeing the medical reports.

“At no time was Gareth made unavailable for selection. Indeed, Gareth made clear publicly on numerous occasions his desire to compete for Team GB and was extremely disappointed on hearing the news he would not be fit to participate.

“He is now focused on and determined to get fit for the season ahead and to this end we have brought out an additional member of our medical team on tour, dedicated to Gareth’s recovery.

“We are dismayed that some have sought to make wrongful assumptions about Gareth’s particular situation and that such positive news surrounding his recovery is being highlighted in this manner.

“We trust that this statement now clarifies this matter once and for all.”