Tell Nigerians we are happy with Boniface – Xabi Alonso
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso has said the club is ‘happy’ with Victor Boniface after questions were asked about the Nigerian striker’s place in the starting XI.
Boniface was sidelined with injury for four months, returning to action in April. However, since his return, the 23-year-old, who had been a regular starter, started only three games.
Speaking to Omasports ahead of their Europa League final clash with Atalanta, Alonso allayed doubts of Boniface’s important and said he’s happy with the player.
“After an injury, it takes time,” Alonso told Omasports.” “But of course we have a wide squad and so many players and they all want to be on the pitch.
“I like when someone is not playing and shows his character to prove and say ‘coach you were wrong I have to be on the pitch.’
“So that’s the challenge as a professional. Boniface has made a huge impact this year. He has helped us so much and we are helping him to be back on track. So tell people from Nigeria that we are happy with him.”
Boniface has had a great season, scoring 14 goals and registering 8 assists in 23 league games.
In the Europa League, he’s scored 5 times in 7 games and will look to lift the trophy – the second of the season – on Wednesday night.
Alonso also discussed his development as a coach. For the Spaniard, it’s a first final in a European competition as coach, having played in three UEFA Champions League finals as a player. He played notably under Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti but clearly noted that his players have contributed greatly to his growth as a manager.
“I played under a lot of good coaches and learned from all of them. Right now I’m learning a lot from my players. We all work together and try every day to make each other better.”
Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen have created headlines around the world with their 51-game unbeaten run in all competitions which has taken them to a first Bundesliga title.
On Wednesday night against Atalanta, they will try to wrap up the second part of a treble – and move within 90 minutes of an unprecedented unbeaten season.
