Real Madrid chief Zinedine Zidane rates Tottenham star Gareth Bale in the same class as Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Zidane admits he's been scouting the Spurs winger.

"I have actually been watching Tottenham for the very reason that Gareth Bale was playing.

"Aside, obviously, from people like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi - who are top, top players - he is the footballer who impressed me most, I must admit.

"He particularly impressed me because he was so consistent. He wasn't great in one or two matches, he actually was a good player all the time.

"He scored goals all the time, including very important goals.

"He has been very, very impressive."