Tottenham deserved to beat Stoke, argues Bale

The Welsh winger felt that Spurs' larger share of possession and attacking efforts merited more than a solitary point but now looks ahead to Boxing Day's clash with Aston Villa

Tottenham winger Gareth Bale feels that Saturday's 0-0 draw with Stoke City was not a true reflection of their performance.

The Potters frustrated Andre Villas-Boas' men with their ninth clean sheet of the season despite Spurs having over five times as many shots on goal.

"We were on the front foot for most of the game but it was difficult," Bale remarked to the club's official website.

"They didn't have too many chances, we had most of the possession and most of the opportunities.

"It was a bit disappointing not to get the win because we deserved it overall but it's a point, we move on and we now look to Aston Villa [on Boxing Day]."

Next opponents Villa were battered 8-0 by Chelsea on Sunday but had previously been on a six-game unbeaten run and Bale observed: "[Manager] Paul Lambert has done really well.

"He's built a new team and they are gelling together well and starting to play some good stuff now.

"It will be difficult, as it always is at Villa Park, but it's a game we’re looking forward to and we'll aim to get the three points."