“He can still play this year” – Boniface’s boss Alonso offers hope amid speculation of year-ending injury

Victor Boniface suffered an adductor injury to his right thigh earlier this year, which caused him to miss Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 campaign

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has provided an update on Nigerian striker Victor Boniface’s injury, which he sustained during the international break, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The 23-year-old Boniface participated in Nigeria’s matches during the recent international break, featuring in the 2-1 loss to Rwanda and the 1-1 draw against the Republic of Benin.

On his return to Germany, the former Union SG forward missed Leverkusen’s training ahead of FC Heidenheim due to a thigh injury sustained while on international duty for Nigeria.

Manager Alonso has expressed his disappointment in this crucial time of the season but reassured fans regarding the Nigerian’s return before the end of the year.

“It’s a shame, he has a small injury in his thigh muscles,” Alonso said, “We hope he can still play this year. We have to wait and see – but it won’t be for six to eight weeks.”

With Boniface sidelined, Leverkusen will rely on Czech striker Patrik Schick to step in as a replacement. Alonso added, “He is always ready. We need him not just now, but always,” acknowledging Schick’s importance to the team during this period of uncertainty.

Boniface has been a standout performer for the Bundesliga side this season, with his strong performances for the club heightening expectations. Leverkusen will be hoping for his swift recovery, but until then, they will look to Schick to fill the void.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

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