Czech Republic striker Patrik Schick has admitted that he is comfortable with the competition with Victor Boniface for a starting place at Bayer Leverkusen, Soccernet.ng reports.
Schick arrived at Bayer Leverkusen in 2020 and quickly became the club’s first-choice player. However, after sustaining a long-term injury in 2022, Bayer Leverkusen signed Boniface from Royale Union as his replacement.
The Super Eagles star was thrown straight into the thick of things, and he proved his worth. By the time Schick returned to action last season, Boniface had sealed his spot as Xabi Alonso’s first-choice striker.
Boniface has registered 30 goals and 11 assists for Die Werkself in 50 appearances. However, he has also been struggling with injuries recently.
The 23-year-old hitman started the season as the main man at Bayer Leverkusen, but he suffered an injury in late November. That opened the door for Schick to become the main striker.
Boniface returned to action for the first time in three months on Saturday and scored the opener for Bayer Leverkusen in their 3-1 win over Hoffenheim. However, he was subbed off at halftime and replaced by Schick, who eventually scored the third.
After the game, Schick was asked about his relationship with Boniface and the competition for a starting shirt. He admitted that he was happy with Boniface’s presence.
“We are pushing each other. Obviously, it is impossible to play all the games with just one striker,” Schick told Oma Akatugba.
“Nonetheless, I’m just focused on myself. It’s always on the coach to decide, but Boniface is a very, very good player, and he’s happy to help our team.”
Boniface is currently one of Bayer Leverkusen’s most prized assets. If he continues to perform at his current level, he could leave the club by the end of the season.
