Is Bale the best player in the Premier League?

As soon as the ball left Gareth Bale's foot in the 90^th minute during Tottenham Hotspur's 3-2 win over West Ham United on Monday night, it was only destined for the top corner. The winger hadn't been enjoying the most prolific of encounters and a point appeared to be a fair result for both teams.

However, breaking through the middle the Welshman launched an unstoppable drive past the impressive Jussi Jaaskelainen to ensure all the three points were heading to White Hart Lane despite the best efforts of their London rivals. In now takes his goal tally this calender year to six; the highest in the Premier League.

But, is he the best in England at the moment? In terms of consistency and ability to single handedly drag his team to victory, then yes. Robin van Persie hasn't begun 2013, perhaps, as well as he ended 2012 while Luis Suarez has seen his form somewhat dip following the turn of the year.

And while the pairing have dropped that tiny iota, Bale has more than made up for it with his performances. The 23-year-old may not be of Cristiano Ronaldo standard yet, but that huge gulf in class is shortening with every passing week.

If the young Welshman can continue his current run of form, while working harder to improve his right foot, then there is no reason that will see him become of the best in the world because it's fair to say he's the best in England at present.  

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