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- The Telegraph has published an excellent insider's view of a Valdebebas training session narrated largely by assistant coach Paul Clement. The English coach reveals what it's like working with Gareth Bale on delivering more accurate crosses from the touchline, overseeing feverishly intense five-asides and everything else that goes along with training the world's finest footballers. Check it out.
- Continuing with training, a lighthearted moment occurred when the lightning fast Bale was paired with Martin Odegaard during a sprint drill and mercilessly blew past the young starlet. It's heartening to see a fully-fit Bale hopefully ready to shine in CR7's absence. The Daily Mail provides the evidence.
- Former Madridista and Managing Madrid cult hero Esteban Granero spoke about his return to the Bernabeu with Real Sociedad, saying:
"January is a difficult month for them because they play a lot of games and it seems that they aren`t in the same form that they were before, but they have too much potential for that to affect us. Moreover, they are playing at the Bernabeu where they have fewer doubts. We expect to face the best Real Madrid, but if we are also at our best then we have a chance to win."
- Finally, the Guardian (via These Football Times) provides a thorough, insightful look at Real's modern legacy with regards to producing homegrown players.