Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has revealed that Victor Boniface will need to prove himself to regain his place in the starting lineup, as the Super Eagles striker appears to have fallen behind in the attacking pecking order.
Boniface started the season in flying form, scoring six goals in eight league starts before picking up an injury during the November international break.
This opened the door for Patrik Schick, who capitalised on the opportunity by scoring nine goals in four league starts, including four in his last outing against Freiburg on Saturday.
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Alonso on Victor Boniface’s chances of reclaiming starting role
Following Schick’s performance, Leverkusen boss Alonso was asked about Boniface’s chances of reclaiming his starting spot when he returns to full fitness.
The 43-year-old manager emphasised that his selection would depend on players’ performances in training and matches.
“I have difficulty in choosing players to use in all the positions, I like to have it,” Alonso told Oma Akatugba.
“What we want is that everyone is fighting for a position to get better and help the team.
“We’ll have so many games, all the players will have their moments. But the most important is that the same way that Patrik Schick is in good form, we want to have Boniface in good form as well. We want him fully fit that he forgets his injuries, he is working hard on the pitch, and scoring goals.
“Boniface and Schick decide who plays because the one that deserves and proves himself usually gets the chance.”
Victor Boniface is expected to return from injury in January, and the 23-year-old will aim to prove he deserves to reclaim his starting role.
