Jose Mourinho tips Gareth Bale to be fit in time for Tottenham showdown with Man Utd

Jose Mourinho reckons Gareth Bale will be fit just in time for Tottenham’s clash with Manchester United.

The Welshman rejoined Spurs last week in a surprise transfer from Real Madrid after agreeing a one-year loan.

However, it transpired that Bale was injured for at least a month.

Regardless, Tottenham pushed through with the deal with Mourinho proving to be the catalyst.

And the Special One believes his new stellar signing will be ready to face United in a Premier League showdown.

When Spurs take on West Ham on October 17, after the international break, that is the expected date for Bale’s second debut.

Gareth Bale has rejoined Tottenham

But there is hope he can play before that, as early as October 3 before the Nations League gets back underway.

Mourinho said: “I don’t know when Gareth can be back.

“The only thing I know is that his motivation is high. He’s so happy to be with the club of his heart, he’s so happy to play for us.

“And when a player has this motivation, many times you can short [reduce] the period of recovery, you can short the period of getting fit and ready to play.

“We’re more than happy to have him and help him back to a level that made him one of the best players in the world.”

Tottenham made light work of Southampton in a 5-2 result but Mourinho has insisted that he needs another striker.

Danny Ings, who grabbed a late consolation goal for Saints on Sunday, is the top target but his arrival is unlikely.

Spurs’ fixtures are building up and they face Leyton Orient in the Carabao Cup before jetting off to Macedonia for their Europa League clash.

Kane is expected to start both matches because of a lack of a second striker with Mourinho saying: “In principle, Harry has to be [involved tomorrow].

“We need him, especially in these matches against these teams who are seen, in theory, as inferior. Inferior teams are going to defend against you and you need a striker.

“I want Harry to play. That’s if he feels he can, if he feels ready to do it.

“He’s an experienced player and he knows his body better than any of the sports science guys or any medical guys. If he’s ready to play, it’s possible.”