The Real Madrid hierarchy are reportedly losing patience with winger Gareth Bale following his decision to link up with the Wales squad during the international break.

Bale has struggled with minor injuries so far this season, being forced off at half time of the derby against Atletico Madrid and missing the following Champions League defeat to CSKA Moscow due to a muscle problem.

Tests suggested that Bale had not suffered an injury, but he then asked to be substituted after 70 minutes of last weekend's loss to Alaves as Madrid's winless and goalless streak extended to four matches.

Despite that, Bale has met up with the Wales squad and is hopeful of featuring in Tuesday's UEFA Nations League clash with Republic of Ireland, having been ruled out of tonight's friendly with Spain.

Telemadrid reports that the club are unhappy with Bale's decision to choose country over club and believe that he has failed to live up to expectations, both since his arrival and since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in the summer.

The report will cast renewed doubt over the future of the 29-year-old, who has been strongly linked with a return to the Premier League on numerous occasions since joining Madrid.