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Cape Town - Orlando Pirates full-back Thabo Matlaba says he is not concerned by his imminent rivalry with Marc van Heerden for the left-back position.
Van Heerden recently moved to Bucs from Chippa United as part of a swap deal which saw Justice Chabalala, Donald Makondolela and Sello Japhta move in the opposite direction on loan spells.
The 28-year-old has previously been linked with a move to Gauteng's Big Three prior his Chippa move in the off-season, but Pirates won the race for his signature.
"Marc is a hardworking, quality fullback, who will undoubtedly bring vast experience to the team's defence. Of course, his presence will also give a bit more competition in the team's left-back position," Matlaba told Vodacom Soccer.
"That means there will be more competition between me, Patrick (Phungwayo) and Marc for a starting berth, which means a healthy competition in a team.
"Look, I'm a professional and believe in my ability as a player, so I'm always ready for competition, because competition is a name of the game.
"Yes, I am a regular at the team's left-back position, but that doesn't mean I should treat any new player with whom I will compete for a position as a threat."
Bucs will resume Absa Premiership campaign by taking on Platinum Stars at Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg on Wednesday.
Kick-off is at 19:30.
