As he announced the 26-man squad he will take to Qatar on Wednesday, Wales manager Rob Page gave the impression that Gareth Bale might not be able to start three World Cup games in nine days.
Bale has been incredible as he has guided his nation to its first World Cup since 1958.
The 33-year-old scored a thrilling late equalizer for LAFC, who went on to win the MLS Cup on penalties, coming off the bench.
However, injuries have curtailed the five-time Champions League champion’s playing time since his move to the USA in June.
Right now, he’s not fully recovered, Page said. Has he logged the number of minutes we’d like? Most likely not. But I’m not concerned by it.
He has repeatedly shown that no matter how many minutes he has played at the domestic level, he always delivers when he dons the Welsh jersey.
Wales full squad
“On big occasions he’ll always turn up, thrive, and enjoy it. No question about that. He’ll have an effect on the game straight away and when opposing managers see his name on the team sheet they’ll know.”
Wales begin their tournament against the USA on November 21 before facing Iran and England in Group B.
When asked if Bale would be fit to start three games in quick succession, Page responded: “That’s the million dollar question. We don’t know.
“We’ll assess each game as it comes. We’ll have a plan moving forward for the second one. If he’s part of that great, if he’s not we’ll manage the minutes.”
Page has also given Joe Allen the chance to prove his fitness ahead of the tournament.
The Swansea midfielder played a vital role in Wales’ run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016 and last 16 of Euro 2020, but has not played since injuring a hamstring in September.
“We’re giving him every opportunity to be fit,” added Page.
“I phoned him a couple of days ago to tell him he was in the 26 just to take that pressure off him.
“If he’s fit, he’s playing. He’s massive for how I play and the success we’ve had.”
