Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has resumed ball training as he prepares for his return to competitive football after the winter break.
The Nigerian striker returned to Bayer Leverkusen after the October international break with an injury that has sidelined him for the rest of 2024.
In Boniface’s absence, Bayer Leverkusen have performed admirably, winning eight out of nine matches, with the only blemish being a draw against Bochum.
They have netted an impressive 24 goals during this period, maintaining their pursuit of Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga, while also staying competitive in the UEFA Champions League.
Czech striker Patrik Schick has stepped up to fill the void left by Boniface, delivering consistently strong performances.
In Leverkusen’s final match before the winter break against Freiburg, Schick scored four goals, bringing his Bundesliga tally to nine goals in 12 matches.
His contributions have propelled Leverkusen to second place in the league standings with 32 points, just four behind leaders Bayern.
The imminent return of Boniface, coupled with Schick’s scintillating form, presents Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso with a welcome selection dilemma.
Victor Boniface vs. Patrik Schick: 2024 season stats
Boniface, 23, began the season as Leverkusen’s first-choice striker and made a strong start.
By match day five, he had scored three goals and provided one assist, continuing his fine form from the previous season.
Overall, Boniface has six goals and one assist in 10 appearances, averaging 0.6 goals per game.
Unfortunately, his season has been marred by off-field incidents, including a car accident and the injury that has kept him out of action for the last five Bundesliga matches and two Champions League games.
Based on his previous scoring frequency and expected averages, it is likely Boniface would have reached double digits in goals by now if not for these setbacks.
Schick, on the other hand, has emerged as Leverkusen’s main attacking threat in Boniface’s absence.
The Czech forward has scored nine goals in 12 matches, averaging 0.75 goals per game, and has been instrumental in securing key victories for the team.
What does this mean for Boniface?
Despite Schick’s excellent form, Boniface should remain optimistic about reclaiming his spot in the starting line-up.
His proven goal-scoring ability suggests that, once fit, he can match or even surpass his current output, regardless of Schick’s performances.
However, Boniface will need to work hard to convince Xabi Alonso that he deserves to lead the line.
The competition between the two strikers could bring out the best in both, providing Leverkusen with an enviable depth of attacking options.
There is no reason for Boniface to panic.
He has the talent and determination to bounce back, reclaim his starting role, and contribute significantly to Leverkusen’s push for domestic and European success.
