Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has accused Gareth Bale’s critics of having unrealistic expectations.

And Bale’s Wales bosses have jumped in to defend the underfire ‘Galactico’.

Bale has been slated in the Spanish and British media for his display in Real’s Champions League semi-final first leg defeat by Juventus in midweek.

The 25-year-old failed to register a shot on goal – and touched the ball fewer times than goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

In pictures - Juventus 2-1 Real Madrid:

Ex-Bernabeu chief Calderon said: “Gareth did not play well, but neither did the rest. They are not robots.

“Gareth is the one who has the world-record fee next to his name, so everyone looks at him as though he always has to be the best player. That is not possible.”

And Bale’s national boss Chris Coleman is unfazed by criticism of his star turn – according to Wales coach Osian Roberts.

Roberts said: “We have 100 per cent faith in Gareth. Pundits are paid to give an opinion that is going to spark public reaction. But we don’t care.”