Speaking to Football Insider, pundit Frank McAvennie has spoken out over Jose Mourinho's decision not to start Gareth Bale in the Premier League on a regular basis - coming after a claim that he is 'not going to play' against the big sides. 

Bale, who was snapped up from Real Madrid on a season-long loan deal over the summer, has been utilised carefully by coach Mourinho - mainly due to slight fitness concerns and, debatably, the improving form of January signing Steven Bergwijn.

The Welshman has started just one Premier League game since returning to Spurs, away to West Bromwich Albion, where the Lilywhites eventually came away with all three points thanks to a last gasp strike from Harry Kane.

McAvennie baffled by Mourinho call on Bale

McAvennie, in an interview with Football Insider, has questioned the manager's decision not to play him more often - with Bale so far reduced to Europa League starts and the occasional top flight cameo.

“I do not get it," the former West Ham man explained.

“I really do not understand it. I thought we were going to see the front three of Kane, Son and Bale every week. I do not understand why he is not playing him in the Premier League."

Despite being perplexed by Mourinho's decision over the 'very important' summer signing, McAvennie still holds praise for Spurs as they challenge at the top of the table.

"Even then they have been fantastic going forward," he continued.

"I hate to say it but they are putting a challenge in this season.”

Transfer Tavern take

While some believe that Mourinho is not playing Bale enough, you could argue that this is a smart decision given his past injury problems coupled with the intensity of English football.

As the 31-year-old continues to be eased in, there is little doubt we will see more of him over a congested fixture calendar.

In other news: Tottenham have been gifted an unlikely boost by Levy, find out more here.