Robben: I don´t fear Goetze challenge

Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben does not fear competition for his place from Mario Goetze this season.

Goetze joined the Bavarian club from Borussia Dortmund on July 1 for €37million, but has yet to make an appearance as he recovers from a hamstring injury.

However, Robben is not worried that he will be ousted from Pep Guardiola’s first team when his fellow attacker reaches full fitness.

“Goetze’s arrival? You have to believe in yourself and don’t fear competition for places,” he told Bild.

“I am really looking forward to playing alongside Mario.

“He is a great player. One of our biggest strengths last year was that the absence of a key player didn’t really weaken us.

“And it can be a positive thing as well when you occasionally miss a game in a season followed by a World Cup.”

The Dutchman also backed team-mate Franck Ribery to win UEFA’s Best Player in Europe award, after the Frenchman was nominated alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I would totally understand it if Ribery wins it,” he added. “He deserves it. It would also be recognition for the team. It’s the team that allows individuals to shine.

“Messi and Ronaldo are extraordinary, but Franck and Bayern won the treble.”