Wales coach Coleman in awe of brilliant Bale

Wales manager Chris Coleman joked that he had asked for Gareth Bale's autograph after the Real Madrid star inspired his country to a 3-1 friendly victory over Iceland.

Bale created two goals before scoring a magnificent effort of his own in Wednesday's game at the Cardiff City Stadium, racing down the right flank past two defenders before firing into the bottom-left corner.

"I have just asked him for an autograph!" Coleman said.

"He is one of the best I have ever witnessed. He is an unbelievable player, he really is. He is a fantastic weapon for us. For the people who came tonight (Wednesday) it was worth paying the fee, just for him."

Bale is finding his feet at Madrid following his move from Tottenham Hotspur last year, which was reportedly worth a world-record fee of £85.3 million ($142.6 million, 103.9 million euros).

He has scored five goals in his last seven appearances for the nine-time European champions and Coleman believes he will soon be considered one of the world's best players.

"He has every chance of winning the Ballon d'Or one day," Coleman said.

"He is playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. We want to be successful as well and he will have a big hand in that.

"He has a great chance. I'm not sure he thinks about that but, looking around, there are not many others playing like he is."

Iceland manager Lars Lagerback, whose side missed out on a place at the World Cup after losing to Croatia in the play-offs, concurred with Coleman's assessment of Bale's ability.

"He is world-class. I don't know if I can find the words to describe the way he is playing," he said.

"He is absolutely in the same bracket as (Lionel) Messi and (Cristiano) Ronaldo."

Bale himself was eager to emphasise the importance of Wales's victory as they prepare the groundwork for the Euro 2016 qualifiers, which begin later this year.