The national team coach joked that he wanted an autograph from the Real Madrid star himself, after the winger's goal and two assists in Wednesday's friendly win over Iceland

The Red Devils winger retired from international duty with the Dragons in 2007 and was widely regarded as one of his country's best ever players. However, after watching Bale score a magnificent solo goal as well as notch up two assists against Iceland on Wednesday, Coleman was blown over by the Real Madrid man's ability. The 43-year-old coach beamed to reporters: "What Gareth does on the pitch is extraordinary. With him in our team we always know we have a real chance and he proved that again. "Just witnessing what he did in this match was worth the entrance fee for the fans who came here and saw something very special. "Gareth was so good I've even asked him afterwards for a photograph and his autograph myself! "I played with Ryan Giggs, of course, and I always said he was the finest player I appeared with but I honestly do think Bale will be even better in time. "Giggs scored some great goals for Wales from free kicks but Gareth runs past four or five defenders to score for us and he does it consistently. He's more dynamic, direct and powerful than even Ryan was and that's really saying something. None of this is disrespecting Giggs, a truly great player, but I just think Gareth will be the No.1." Aside from an own goal from Ashley Williams, Iceland struggled to threaten the Welsh back four, while also failing to contain the in-form Bale and Coleman believes that the friendly win can be used as a platform for his team ahead of the start of Euro 2016 qualifying later this year. "We want to win any game we play, especially when you are representing your country," he declared to Sky Sports. "We did that and also we got a new cap in Emyr Huws who did very, very well. "It was a good win for us, it gives us a nice confidence boost going into another tough one we've got in June away to Netherlands, which we're thoroughly looking forward to." Wales were also given a glowing approval from Iceland coach Lars Lagerback, who told the press: "I think Wales have a great chance in their group. Wales have a good chance to qualify."