Super Eagles news: Leverkusen coach explains what could change for Victor Boniface

Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface could have an opportunity to revive his career at Bundesliga heavyweights Bayer Leverkusen this season. The 25-year-old has struggled to maintain his place in recent seasons, with recurring knee problems and fitness concerns limiting his playing time.

Boniface, once a regular starter and one of Leverkusen’s key attackers, has fallen behind Christian Kofane and Patrik Schick in the centre-forward pecking order. He has managed just five minutes across all competitions this season.

Kofane picked up an injury on international duty with Cameroon and is expected to be out for several weeks. His absence could give Boniface more playing time, although he will still have to compete with Schick.

Head coach Carles Martínez said, via Bulinews: “What is certain is that, with Kofane out, that spot is available. Of course, we have Patrik [Schick], and we’re very happy with him, but we will also need other players because we have a lot of minutes to play in the coming weeks, and everyone will be important.”

“Boni will certainly be an option. We will obviously see how he is doing, as he hasn’t played all that much. We have players I’m completely confident in: if Patrik needs a rest or we have to make a change for any reason, we will have options.”

“He trains fully every day. Of course, he isn’t playing much at the moment, as you can see – he has only played a few minutes in one match, and it hasn’t been possible for him to be in the squad for European games. That’s simply the situation at the moment,” Martínez added.

“Boni is here, and his knee is fine. We’ll see how things develop. The same applies to tomorrow: if everything goes well, he will be in the squad, and if we need him, he is obviously an important player because he can help us score goals and contribute in other ways.”

The Super Eagles forward will hope to remain fit and make the most of his opportunities, beginning with Saturday’s trip to Mainz.