Borussia Dortmund's Matthias Ginter has vowed to fight for his place in the starting lineup this season, suggesting that this year is 'crucial' for his development.
The 22-year-old joined the club from fellow Bundesliga side Freiburg two years ago, however since then Ginter has not been able to push his way into Dortmund's starting XI despite being a part of Germany's World Cup winning squad in 2014.
Despite his struggles, and interest from domestic rivals Wolfsburg and Hamburg, Ginter has been told to stay at the club for his own development, and speaking to German news outletWaz,the young defender feels that this year is crucial if he is to develop: "The club immediately signalled they are not willing to talk [about selling me].
#Soccer • Matthias Ginter vows to win place in Borussia¦ https://t.co/U4HOqPmNvj → via https://t.co/9yAxaoCpGe √ pic.twitter.com/Ld66aBrt34
"It also shows their estimation for me and my potential.
"I am at Borussia Dortmund and I want to achieve a lot.I believe that it can be a crucial year for me. It's my goal and my aspiration to play. I intend to do a lot."
The Germaninternationalhas endured a successful summer at the Rio Olympics, picking up a silver medal after agonisingly losing out to hosts Brazil in the final on penalties.
However, as heenters his third year at the Dortmund, Ginter will have to become an influential figure in coach Thomas Toucher's side should he wish to represent his country further, having not featured for Germany since last November.