Gareth Bale made his senior debut  for Southampton on April 17, 2006.

Here, the PA news agency looks at the start of Bale’s career and how the Wales international went on to become the world’s most expensive player.

Early beginnings

Tour de France 2018
Gareth Bale pictured on Whitchurch High School’s Wall of Fame with fellow alumni Geraint Thomas and Sam Warburton (Phil Blanche/PA)

Do or die

Soccer – FA Cup – Fourth Round – Manchester City v Southampton – The City of Manchester Stadium
Gareth Bale’s Southampton journey was in danger of hitting the buffers at the age of 15 (Peter Byrne/PA)

Saints alive

Soccer – Coca-Cola Championship match – Derby v Southampton.
Gareth Bale celebrates his first senior goal for Southampton at Derby in August 2006 (Rui Vieira)

Rise to the top

Soccer – Barclays Premier League – Aston Villa v Tottenham Hotspur – Villa Park
Gareth Bale made his mark at Tottenham after a difficult start and was twice named PFA player of the year (David Davies/PA)