<P> He scored again, at St. Mary's, against Coventry City in the team's second game of the 2006--07 season with another free kick . Bale further developed his reputation as a free kick specialist when he struck the post from one against West Bromwich Albion . By 16 December 2006, Bale's goal count had risen to five, thanks to a late equaliser against Sunderland and free - kicks away to Hull and at home to Norwich City . </P> <P> In December 2006, he won the Carwyn James Award for the BBC Wales Young Sports Personality of the Year, and was named the Football League Young Player of the Year on 4 March 2007 . This capped what was described in the local press as an "incredible" first full season as a professional footballer in which he was one of the Saints' "most creative players even (though operating) from the left - back position whilst his defending improved immeasurably as the season progressed ." </P> <P> His final game for Southampton was in the first leg of the Championship play - off semi-final against Derby County on 12 May 2007 . Bale suffered an injury during the second half, preventing him from appearing in the second leg . In total, he made 45 appearances for Southampton, scoring five goals . </P> <P> On 25 May 2007, Bale signed a four - year deal with Tottenham Hotspur with the club paying an initial £ 5 million for the player, potentially rising to £ 10 million based on appearances and success . However, in 2008, Southampton agreed an early settlement payment of £ 2 million reducing the final fee to £ 7 million in exchange for immediate cash needed in light of their financial difficulties . </P>

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