Bale could have broken my leg, says O’Shea

DUBLIN: Republic of Ireland veteran John O’Shea believes he was fortunate to avoid a broken leg after being fouled by Gareth Bale during his side’s bruising World Cup qualifier against Wales.

Ireland captain Seamus Coleman sustained a sickening double leg break during Friday’s 0-0 draw here in an incident that saw Welsh wing-back Neil Taylor sent off.

Bale had earlier escaped with a yellow card after catching O’Shea high on the left leg as he slid in to attack Chris Gunter’s cross and the Sunderland defender revealed the injury had required stitches.

“I’ve had plenty of stitches put in there. I was lucky considering what has happened to Seamus,” O’Shea told reporters.

“On another night there could have been two red cards. I can’t remember how many stitches it was. The doctor had to stick some in deep and a few dissolvable ones on top. Hopefully it will heal quick.”