Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has clarified the limited appearances of Nigerian forward Victor Boniface since his return from injury, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Boniface sustained a groin injury in January while training with the Super Eagles ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire in January.
The injury kept him out of action for three months and even though the Nigeria star was a regular in the starting lineup for Alonso before the injury, Boniface has struggled to pick a starting shirt since his return.
Prior to his injury, Boniface was in outstanding form, registering 10 goals and seven assists in 16 Bundesliga matches, winning the Bundesliga Rookie of the Month for three consecutive month.
Ahead of Leverkusen’s Europa League final against Atalanta, Alonso addressed Boniface’s reduced playing time when questioned by journalist Oma Akatugba.
Alonso emphasized the depth of the squad and the competitive nature of securing a spot on the pitch.
“After the injury, it takes time, but we have a wide squad. We have so many players, and all of them want to be on the pitch. I like when someone is not playing and shows the character to prove to me that ‘Coach, you were wrong; I have to be on the pitch’, that’s the challenge as a professional,” Alonso stated as quoted by Vanguard.
“I’m happy with Boniface and the impact that he’s had this year for us; he’s helped us so much, and we’re helping him back on track. Tell your people from Nigeria that we’re happy with him.”
Leverkusen, who are on the brink of an ‘Invincible Treble,’ have gone unbeaten in 51 games across all competitions. They face Atalanta in the Europa League final and have another chance to complete their treble this week.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun