Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has revealed he has no issues with Super Eagles attacker Victor Boniface over his limited playing time, Soccernet.ng reports.
Boniface picked up a knock just days before his debut at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, which led to him undergoing surgery for an adductor muscle injury in January.
After three months away from the Leverkusen squad, Boniface returned from injury for their German Cup semi-final against Fortuna Düsseldorf.
Since his return, Boniface has started only three of the 12 games for the current German Bundesliga champions.
Xabi Alonso on the Fight for the Starting XI
Leverkusen is set to face Italian Serie A side Atalanta BC in the final of the 2023-24 UEFA Europa League, raising questions about Boniface’s involvement.
Ahead of the clash, Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba asked the Spanish boss why the Nigerian forward has had limited playing time since his return from injury.
Alonso responded that the club values Victor Boniface’s contributions and appreciates when a player fights for a spot in the squad.
“It’s a good question, but for sure after the injury, it takes time. We have a wide squad with many players, all of whom want to be on the pitch.
“For sure, I like when someone is not playing and shows this character to prove to me that ‘coach, you were wrong, I have to be on the pitch.’
“I am happy with Boniface. The impact he has had this year has helped us a lot, and we are helping him get back on track. Tell your people in Nigeria that we are happy with him.” he said via a video shared by Oma Akatugba.
See the video here:
Boniface Wins Rookie of the Season
The Nigerian international recently won the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award following his impressive performance for the Black and Reds.
The Super Eagles attacker led the votes in a contest that included Xavi Simons, Ian Maatsen, and Maximilian Beier.
The 23-year-old has scored 13 goals and provided three assists in the Bundesliga this season, winning the monthly award four consecutive times from August to December 2023.