Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted that it is vital that his Real Madrid teammate Gareth Bale is not 'pressurised' in the early stages of his career with the Spanish champions.

Bale has struggled with injury since making the move from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, but it is believed that the Welshman could be fit to face Barcelona in La Liga at the weekend.

"Bale? He has been doing well since he arrived. He didn't put in a pre-season so that made things a bit more difficult for him," Ronaldo told reporters at a press conference.

"We can't pressurise him, we must allow him to develop here. He always wants to learn, he's a fantastic guy.

"I don't think talking about his price tag helps him and we must leave him alone in that aspect. He will do great things for the team."

Madrid face Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday.