Chris Coleman gives Gareth Bale free rein for Wales as Sam Allardyce does the same with Wayne Rooney

• e-mail

Chris Coleman has followed Sam Allardyce's approach with Wayne Rooney by giving Gareth Bale licence to roam — but stressed the Real Madrid star does have defensive duties, too.

Allardyce caused a stir by insisting he could not tie Rooney to one position but Coleman is comfortable allowing Bale to take the initiative when Wales have possession.

Bale's influence was again underlined by his two goals and an assist in the World Cup qualifying win against Moldova. Coleman believes his work ethic without the ball is just as valuable.

Gareth Bale celebrates his first goal for Wales against Moldova in Cardiff on Monday night

Bales nets from the penalty spot to complete his brace in the World Cup Group D qualifier

Chris Coleman has said of Bale: 'I make sure he knows what formation we are playing'

'I make sure he knows what formation we are playing and what the tactical game plan is, but I can't tie somebody like him down in possession,' said Coleman.

'Without the ball he knows where he needs to be and he's got a job. With the ball — it's game on, whatever he sees, whatever he wants to do.

'If he sees an opening and he takes it, that's all him in possession of the ball. In a second, he can change your life. Without the ball there is a job to be done and he does it.'

Coleman added: 'I don't just watch him on the ball when he makes a great pass or takes players on — I watch his movement off it, when he is dragging the opposition round to make space for other players.

Sam Allardyce caused a stir by insisting he could not tie Wayne Rooney to one position

Bale has moved to within four of Ian Rush's all-time Wales scoring record of 28 goals

'His intelligence on the pitch is incredible.'

Bale has moved to within four of Ian Rush's all-time Wales scoring record of 28 goals.

Coleman said: 'He will break the record and you have to say when you look at his record in the last two years there is every chance it will be in this World Cup campaign.

'He comes along and fits in and gets on with his job.'