Bayer Leverkusen's manager Carles Martinez has explained why Nigeria striker Victor Boniface is not in the club’s UEFA Europa League squad. This news comes just before Saturday’s Bundesliga match against Union Berlin.
Boniface was left out of the squad despite having a strong pre-season. Last season, he had a tough time on loan at Werder Bremen.
Martinez told Kicker that Boniface was not fully fit when the squad was named. He mentioned that Boniface’s condition has improved since then.
“Two months ago, when we started our preparations, this question was not to be expected. He wasn’t ready, he was in pain, his knee wasn’t doing so well, and physically he was very far behind,” Martinez said.
“But the good thing is that his knee is responding better. There are still occasional minor issues, but it’s much, much better. Because such a talent deserves a better year for him. And not just this year, but throughout his career.”
The Leverkusen coach knows he will face many questions about Boniface being left out as the striker works on his recovery.
“I hope you can ask me the reason for this decision every week, because Boni is getting better and better. That would be best for him and the club,” he said.
Martinez remains hopeful that Boniface will be ready to play in the coming months.
“In many games, when we need a goal, Boni is on my mind. We will help him improve, and I hope that in the coming months or at the end of the season we can say: Boni is at 100 per cent.”
Boniface will keep working on his recovery as he tries to get back to the form that made him shine during his first season at the BayArena.
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