BARCELONA (REUTERS) - Real Madrid's record signing Gareth Bale is nearing his return following a long layoff after the La Liga leaders announced on Sunday that he completed his first training session since undergoing ankle surgery in November.

Wales international Bale went under the knife to treat damaged ankle tendons - an injury he sustained in Real's 2-1 win at Sporting Lisbon on Nov 22.

It has been his longest period on the sidelines since joining the Spanish club in 2013. Real coach Zinedine Zidane has said the forward will not be ready in time for Wednesday's Champions League last-16, first leg tie with Napoli.

His comeback is likely to be either next Saturday's game with Espanyol or the visit to Valencia on Feb 22.

Bale signed a new contract with the 11-times European champions until 2022 in November. He has scored seven goals in all competitions this season.