Ribery not about to leave Bayern

David Alaba has dismissed suggestions that Franck Ribery's cycle at Bayern Munich is nearing its end and is adamant that the Frenchman still remains a key figure for the Bavarians.

The former France international has been plagued by injuries over the past two seasons and some have questioned whether he will ever be able to replicate the form that saw him make the top three for the Ballon d'Or in 2013.

The arrival of Douglas Costa from Shakhtar Donetsk earlier this summer has cast further doubts over Ribery's future at the club, yet Alaba has little doubt the winger still has plenty to offer.

"Franck is a guy who is very strong mentally," Alaba was quoted as saying by Bild.

"I am not too worried about him. He wants to make his comeback as soon as possible and is working hard to achieve that.

"Bayern still need Ribery. Franck can become very important for us once more."

Alaba, 23, was briefly linked with a move to Real Madrid earlier this year, but he has made it clear that he is not thinking about a transfer.

"I don't let any transfer rumours distract me. Last season in particular I was only thinking about getting fully match fit again after my knee injury. I have not even thought about any enquiries or approaches.

"I still have plenty of goals with Bayern. I am not thinking about a transfer at all."