Real Madrid players have rallied around Gareth Bale after he was again jeered by home fans last night.

Bale produced two assists for the 3-0 Champions League win over APOEL, but was still booed by the Santiago Bernabeu crowd.

Real midfielder Casemiro declared: "Of course it affects us.

"It was noticed that today he was trying, it shows that he is not at his best, but he keeps working, he tried to finish, he was fighting and is the Bale that we need. He is one of the best in the role he does, hopefully he will continue with that mentality of a lot of work because with his quality things will work out for him.

"We try to protect all players, we always defend ourselves, we are a family, that's why I defend my players like my family and I'm with them until the end."

Toni Kroos also remarked: "We've given everything and no one deserves that, but this is Real Madrid and they want to see the best of each player.

"But it's clear that this does not help anyone."