Gareth Bale believes he has become a better player while at Real Madrid due to the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bale has scored 14 goals in 29 appearances after a slow start following his record transfer fro Tottenham.

"Cristiano, at the moment, is the best player in the world for me," Bale said.

"We all know the level that he plays at, it's absolutely extraordinary. It helps me so much to play in an attack that Cristiano is part of.

"It's important for any footballer to be playing these high level matches. I hope that we are all going to improve in order to secure trophies this season.

"I have had a very good six months in Madrid. What has surprised me most in La Liga are the tactics.

"Everybody here can play the ball, pass and move ... there are no long balls like in England. I'm really enjoying this great league."