Victor Boniface (X)
Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has revealed that sometimes he forces Victor Boniface to focus solely on football.
Boniface, known for his humorous antics both on and off the pitch, has been in the news several times, one of which is a reply to a fan recently over his alleged ‘I AM A CHOSEN’ picture.
The Super Eagles striker has also appeared in comedy skits and previously featured in a cross-fire section on Youtube, with popular comedian Bae U.
Despite his playful demeanor, the 23-year-old striker still finds a way to pull off impressive performances. Last campaign, the Nigerian international scored 14 goals and provided nine assists in 23 games in the Bundesliga, helping Leverkusen to a domestic double in grand style.
This performance earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Year award and also a place in the league’s team of the season.
Boniface has started this campaign in similar fashion, bagging a brace and providing an assist against Hoffeinheim, as Alonso’s side recorded a resounding 4-1 victory last time out.
The attacker, in his usual jovial mode, after one of his goals pulled off a weird celebration, which he later explained his reason.
Alonso Victor Boniface playful demeanor
Alonso also acknowledges that Boniface’s cheerful disposition frequently comes through during training, which has made him a popular figure among his teammates.
However, the former midfielder for Liverpool acknowledges that he needs to do more to maintain the Super Eagles star’s focus on club objectives.
“All the teammates really like him, the guy creates a great atmosphere. Sometimes you have to force him to focus only on football, but that’s my job, that’s what I’m trying to do,” Alonso said of the striker after his recent excellent display, according to Efotbal.
Victor Boniface will most likely start in Alonso’s lineup when Leverkusen take on Feyernood in the Champions League this midweek, and the Nigerian will be looking to continue with his blistering form.
