Tottenham Hotspur failed to secure UEFA Champions League football despite a late winner from star player Gareth Bale against Sunderland on Sunday.

Spurs came into the game needing a win but with rivals Arsenal beating Newcastle United at the same time, the Gunners ensured that they claimed fourth place.

Emmanuel Adebayor got in behind the defence five minutes in but couldn't beat Simon Mignolet from a tight angle while Bale was booked for diving 15 minutes later when it seemed that he had a right to shout for a penalty.

Hugo Lloris then had to make a good save 10 minutes later to keep out Connor Wickham while Bale had his finish blocked at the other end in the 35th minute.

Mignolet was worked again in the 40th minute after a free-kick from Bale while the Welshman was unable to make the most of a poor back header from John O'Shea just before the break.

Lloris had to be alert just after the break to keep out Danny Graham while Sunderland looked to get away with a hand ball from Cuellar moments later.

Spurs turned up the heat with Scott Parker seeing his shot cleared off the line before Aaron Lennon hit the inside of the post.

Sunderland would then suffer a major blow when David Vaughan was sent off for a second bookable offence.

As has been the case for most of the season, Bale would produce the goods for Spurs with a stunning strike into the top corner from 30 yards out in the 89th minute, ensuring that Spurs claimed all three points.

Unfortunately, it was not enough as they could only claim fifth place - and it remains to be seen whether Bale will be turning out again next season at White Hart Lane.