Gareth Bale Labels Cristiano Ronaldo a More Complete Player Than Lionel Messi

In-form Tottenham star Gareth Bale has certainly dominated the headlines in recent weeks with some simply sublime performances for the Spurs. The forward has netted three free kicks in two games for the English Premier League side, as he has gone on to establish himself as one of the best players of the 2013 calendar year.

One could argue that, in 2013, Bale has probably only been outshone by the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

In an interview with Life's a Pitch, the Welsh International was asked about the two La Liga superstars, specifically who he thought was the more complete player. Whilst most people would have a hard time choosing between the Argentine and Portuguese forwards, Bale had this to say:

"

For me, personally, I’d say Ronaldo.

He’s got the whole package. He’s strong, he’s powerful, he’s pacey, can head the ball, strike the ball. Obviously, you can’t say anything bad about Messi, but for the all-round complete footballer, I’d say Cristiano Ronaldo.

"

There is no denying his comments are likely to cause a stir somewhere in the world and, god forbid, bring up the age-old Messi vs. Ronaldo debate, but from Bale's perspective, they probably do make sense. After all, the Tottenham man has actually faced off against Ronaldo in the Champions League.

For those who have seen Bale's free kicks over the last week, you would probably have also noticed the similarity with which Ronaldo and Bale strike the dead ball. Both employ the use of the knuckle-ball technique, and although I can't be certain, I'd say Bale perhaps models much of his game on that of Ronaldo. I mean, physically, they are very similar.

This season, Bale has netted 13 goals in the Premier League. His efforts have assisted Tottenham greatly in their climb up the ladder to fourth place.