Victor Boniface continues to make encouraging progress at Bayer Leverkusen as the Nigerian attempts to rediscover his best form following a disastrous loan spell at Werder Bremen. The 25-year-old returned to die Werkself this summer after making only 11 Bundesliga appearances without scoring for Bremen last season. Persistent knee problems eventually required surgery in January, leaving Boniface with considerable work to do simply to regain full fitness.
There have nevertheless been positive signs during preseason. As noted in Get German Football News’Bayer Leverkusen tactical preview, Boniface has looked noticeably sharper in possession and more comfortable operating in tight spaces. Boniface still sits behind Patrik Schick and Christian Kofane in the centre-forward pecking order, but his progress has not gone unnoticed by head coach Carles Martinez.
Boniface may have a future at Leverkusen
“He knows what he has to do. I’m pushing him as well,” Martínez said, as quoted by Kicker. “It’s getting better. His quality is obvious.”
“The fans supported me in good times and bad times, and I really appreciate that,” Boniface added. “We players need their support. I’m really very happy and thank every single one of them.”
“He had a difficult year, but continues to make progress, including in terms of fitness,” managing director Simon Rolfes said. “It can only happen step by step and not overnight. But things are moving in the right direction.”