Real Madrid star Gareth Bale believes he is a better player now, having been on the end of fierce criticism for his poor displays last season.
The Welshman scored 13 La Liga goals but failed to replicate his form from his first term in the Spanish capital, when he played a pivotal role in helping them to win both the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
Bale has bounced back with 15 goals in 18 league appearances despite an injury-disrupted campaign, but his presence has been missed as Madrid have slipped 10 points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona ahead of their crunch trip to the Nou Camp on Saturday, live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 7pm.
"Last season I didn't play to anywhere near to my potential," Bale said. "It was important for me to keep working hard, to keep fighting. It is difficult playing in a foreign country.
"I've felt more settled, more involved in the team this year and I think that has shown in performances on the pitch.
"It's good to have a bad season, you really do learn a lot about yourself and I feel this season I took (what happened) last season on board.
"I understand the game a lot more over here and hopefully there is a lot still more to come in the future."
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