Thursday 9 June 2016 17:43, UK
After many years as a spectator, Gareth Bale is delighted that Euro 2016 gives him the chance to finally take part in a major international tournament with Wales.
Not since 1958 have Wales qualified for the final stages of a World Cup or European Championship but, on Saturday in Bordeaux, they will take to the field to open their Euro 2016 campaign against Slovakia.
And Real Madrid forward Bale is itching to get started, saying: "We're all looking forward to it. The support we've had here and at home in Wales has really inspired us.
"It's been a bit surreal. Every time a major championship went on, I watched it on TV, so to be involved is amazing.
"We want to take it in and enjoy it. It's a new experience. We want to play good football too. It's nice to be involved in a tournament for a change and hopefully we can do well."
Bale also paid tribute to his international teammate Joe Ledley, who suffered a fractured leg while playing for Crystal Palace in early May but has recovered in time to make the trip to France.
Bale added: "When I first heard he'd broken his leg, I was devastated. To make a recovery like that is an incredible achievement.
It's nice to be involved in a tournament for a change ... But we don't just want to make up the numbers. We want to do better than that.
"It's been an amazing job from him. Hopefully now he can be involved in what we've got to look forward to. I think he can make big contribution."
He also believes Chris Coleman's squad will make an impact in the tournament, which starts on Friday.
He went on: "I've played for 10 years for Wales and it's been a massive goal to qualify.
"But we don't just want to make up the numbers. We want to do better than that. We're well prepared, training hard, and come game time we'll be focused and ready."
As for being his team's star player, Bale added: "No, I don't feel the weight of expectation on my shoulders.
"I just want to go out and play football and enjoy myself. We all get on so well. We're all friends, like brothers, so when it comes down to serious business, we fight for each other but have fun at the same time. When you enjoy your football, you play your best."
