Gareth Bale is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the season with a foot injury despite having the cast removed on Monday.

The 18-year-old picked up the problem in the Premier League game against Birmingham at the start of December.

He has made good progress, but the ligament damage was serious and sporting director Damien Comolli does not think he will be able to play any further part in the current campaign.

"Gareth's injury was reviewed today and although the surgeon was happy with the results of the X-rays he does not anticipate Gareth being able to play any further part in this season," Comolli told the club's official website.

"We are all disappointed for Gareth, but he is still very young and his long-term fitness is our priority."