Former Nigerian midfielder Dimeji Lawal has boldly stated that Victor Boniface deserves to earn more Super Eagles call-ups despite the striker’s underwhelming performances in the Nigerian jersey.
Boniface has been a shadow of his club self when representing Nigeria. The 23-year-old striker, who has been in flying form for Bayer Leverkusen, has failed to replicate such performances on international duty.
He has managed just one goal in 11 appearances for the Super Eagles, with his latest outing in Nigeria’s 2-1 loss against Rwanda adding to rising criticism from fans, who have clamoured for him to be axed from the squad.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen also expressed disappointment in the Leverkusen attacker’s performances, stating he has tried to create the right atmosphere to help him thrive.
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Lawal defends Boniface
However, Lawal has come to Boniface’s defence, responding to calls for the striker to be dropped , suggesting that his exploits with Leverkusen is enough to earn him a call up to the national team, and failure to do so would mean the coach is inviting trouble.
“I am not saying Boniface is not good enough. If he had been dropped out of that team and we lost that game without him, people would ask Eguavoen questions. That’s why it is difficult for coaches to make decisions, the 53-year-old told Complete Sports..
He continued, “Watching Boniface score in one of the best leagues in the world is something we all appreciate. And it will be wrong not to invite him to the senior national team. I am sure such a coach will be inviting trouble for himself from Nigerians.”
Boniface is currently sidelined until the end of the year after picking up a thigh injury on international duty.
