Hummels ready to fight for Germany starting spot

May 23, 2012 11:27:00 AM

The Borussia Dortmund defender feels he is in competition with Per Mertesacker to be Holger Badstuber's partner in the heart of the Nationalelf backline at Euro 2012

Mats Hummels says he is determined to be a regular starter for Germany in next month's European Championship in Poland and Ukraine.

The young centre-back starred for Borussia Dortmund in their double-winning campaign, attracting praise from coaches and pundits alike.

And with only Philipp Lahm's place assured in the German back line for Euro 2012, Hummels intends to build on his successful club campaign by securing a starting berth ahead of the likes of Per Mertesacker and Benedikt Howedes.

"It looks as though Holger Badstuber's place is set," the 23-year-old told DAPD news agency.

"And it seems Mertesacker and I will fight for the place next to him. That's my impression."

Hummels insisted that he is ready to accept any decision made by coach Joachim Low, but admitted it would be hard for him to watch his team-mates from the bench.

"We know that there will eventually be a decision from the coach. And everyone will be have to live with it.

"Even though I am confident, the role of a backup is a rather difficult one. I'm being completely honest. If you sit on the bench and the others win, then you will not really feel like part of the winning team," Hummels concluded.

Germany have been drawn in the Group of Death as they take on Portugal, Netherlands and Denmark.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!