Mats Hummels relishing competition for places at Borussia Dortmund

Mats Hummels is looking forward to the competition for places at Borussia Dortmund following the arrivals of Niklas Süle and Nico Schlotterbeck.

Borussia Dortmund have strengthened their squad with a number of big name signings this summer. But the biggest reinforcements have no doubt come in central defence, with the Black and Yellows signing Niklas Süle and Nico Schlotterbeck. And Mats Hummels is excited about the prospect of playing with the duo.

In an interview with Sky Sport, the Borussia Dortmund vice-captain said that the competition for places will help the players push each other to the limit over the course of the season.

"“They are two top guys. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m looking forward to us pushing each other to the max. Then everyone knows, if we play as a back four, that they have to give their absolute top performance if they want to be regular starters at Borussia Dortmund. I think that’s exactly how it should be at this club.”"

Borussia Dortmund are coming off a rather underwhelming season that saw them deliver a number of below par defensive performances. They conceded 52 goals in the Bundesliga alone last season, which is simply not good enough for a team aiming to compete for the top honours in German football.

Along with Süle and Schlotterbeck, Hummels will also have a key role to play if Borussia Dortmund are to improve defensively next season. The 33 year old is entering the final year of his BVB contract. And after struggling with form and fitness issues last season, he will be aiming to do much better in the coming campaign.

Mats Hummels said last week that he is going into pre-season as fit as he has ever been. And fans will be hoping that he can lead the way as Borussia Dortmund look to compete for the Bundesliga title this season.