Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski addresses frustrated teammates

Robert Lewandowski has urged his frustrated Bayern Munich teammates to continue working hard in training to earn their spots on the pitch.

Bayern Munich have endured a season full of ups and downs under Niko Kovac so far. The Croatian made a brilliant start to his tenure, but quickly came under immense scrutiny when results stopped going his way in October and November. Kovac has since changed his rotation policy and settled on a preferred starting lineup and system.

He began the season rotating heavily, switching his starting XI week after week. This proved unsuccessful, though, and even caused many of his players to be dissatisfied. No top player in the world is happy sitting on the bench.

Speaking to Sport1, Robert Lewandowski admitted that players are bound to be upset when they’re not getting the minutes they want, but he further added the atmosphere in the dressing room is very competitive and players are working hard for their places in the starting XI.

"“If we did not have any players who are dissatisfied, if they do not play, then the problem would be even greater.“Everyone has the ambition to play and win. Nevertheless, I see that all players are really good at training and accelerating, which is the most important thing for me and the team, and when they come in, they are ready to give it their all.”"

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James Rodriguez is one of the few players reportedly upset with Kovac’s methods. The Colombian has struggled with injuries throughout this season and failed to make himself a consistent member of the starting lineup. Lewandowski has nothing but praise for James, though, as the Polish striker said in his interview he believes his teammate will play a big role for the club in the second half of the season.

Sandro Wagner, meanwhile, has openly expressed his unhappiness about being left out of the starting lineup often under Kovac. The German striker is set to end his miserable season at Bayern now, as his move to China is inching closer.

Renato Sanches is another player who has openly admitted he needs more game time than what he is getting right now. Kovac has ruled out his departure in the winter, however, and is confident that Sanches will eventually get the minutes he wants on the pitch.

Competition for places is needed at a top club, as it keeps players on their toes and ensures they always give their best. Kovac needs to find balance in his rotation policy in order to get the best out of all players in the squad. His man management skills will be tested heavily in the next four months as the Bavarians face a heavy schedule.

There will be plenty of opportunities for the fringe players in February. Kovac will be hoping that his players respond well when given the chance. The Croatian will need big contributions from every player to retain the Bundesliga title and go deep in both the Champions League and DFB Pokal.