Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has thrown down the gauntlet to Gareth Bale.

The Wales defender, who joined for £5m from Southampton in the summer of 2007, has his chance because of an ankle injury to Benoît Assou-Ekotto, which could keep the first-choice left-back out for a further two or three weeks.

"It's a good opportunity for Gareth to come and have a good run at it," Redknapp said. "I've seen a big improvement in him. He's got stronger and the defensive side of his game has improved with him. He's got everything to be a top player. He's 6ft 2in, has a great physique, great left foot, can run; really, he should be one of the best left backs and I think he has the ability to be that. He's unlucky that Benoît has been so good."