BEN Mee insists no-one at Burnley can take their first team place for granted this season, because the competition is too fierce.

Manager Eddie Howe’s summer transfer dealings have ensured there are virtually two players for every position.

But Mee hopes increased internal pressure can give the Clarets the edge in the Championship.

“It’s all good. A bit of competition doesn’t do anyone any harm,” said the defender, who after 29 league starts at both centre half and left back last season is likely to find his place in the back line under threat from new signings Jason Shackell and Joseph Mills.

But the 22-year-old is up for the challenge, and aiming to reap the benefits of it.

“Shacks is an experienced player, which has been really good for all the lads – especially the younger ones,” said former Manchester City youngster Mee.

“You like to learn things from every player but with someone like Shacks, who plays in my position – it’s going to be tough for me to play there, but I can hopefully learn a lot from him to improve myself.”

But Mee is also hoping to continue making an impression on boss Howe, after coming off the bench at half time at Cheltenham on Saturday to play his part in a 4-0 win.

The Clarets scored three goals after switching from a 4-4-2 to a 3-4-3 formation, with Mee playing on the left of a three-man defence.

“It’s going to be interesting to see what happens over the season,” he said.

“We have tried different formations with the defence, the midfielders and with the strikers this summer.

“I don’t think the manager’s got a set formation yet for what he will start with.

“On Saturday we had a back three and scored three goals in the second half, so hopefully that’s put a thought in his mind about what he might do.”