Black Stars defender Alexander Djiku has revealed that competition for places at Fenerbahçe has intensified following the arrival of Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho.

The Ghana international is expected to feature in Mourinho's first competitive match as Fenerbahçe coach during the UEFA Champions League qualifier against Lugano on Tuesday night.

Djiku has been a consistent performer for the former Chelsea manager throughout the pre-season, playing in most games, including the comprehensive victory over Hull City.

Notably, the versatile defender has often been utilized as a midfielder in the friendly matches.

"As you know, Fenerbahçe is a very big team, and of course, there are big players in such a team, which increases competition and benefits the team.

Not only the players in the defense zone but also our players in all positions, everyone is trying to show their best so that Fenerbahçe can get to good places," Djiku stated during the pre-match press conference.

Djiku joined the Turkish giants last summer from French outfit Strasbourg and played a crucial role in helping the club finish second in the league, narrowly losing the title to rivals Galatasaray by just three points.