Ribery open to central role

Bayern Munich attacker Franck Ribery says he is happy to play as a number 10 under new boss Pep Guardiola.

The Frenchman was a fixture on the wing for the Bavarian club last season, making 43 appearances as his side won the Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League and DFB-Pokal under Jupp Heynckes.

However, he has now revealed that Heynckes’ replacement wants to give him a central attacking berth, and says he is happy to fulfil that role.

“He asked me which is my preferred position and if I could possibly play as a number 10,” Ribery told L’Equipe.”I told him that I can play anywhere in attack. He has lots of ideas.”

The 30-year-old, who signed a new four-year contract with Bayern earlier this week, also praised former Barcelona boss Guardiola’s impact.

“Guardiola is extremely motivated. You feel exactly what he wants to do. He will make us even better,” he added.

Ribery netted on 11 occasions and provided 22 assists for Bayern in 2012-13.

Guardiola began life as Bayern boss with a 15-1 win over a selection of the club’s members on Saturday.

Ribery got on the scoresheet in the game that also saw Toni Kroos make his first appearance since recovering from injury and young attacker Patrick Weihrauch net four.