Victor Boniface: Leverkusen coach Alonso explains why Super Eagles striker is warming the bench

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has addressed concerns over Super Eagles star Victor Boniface's reduced playing time since his return from injury.

The 23-year-old Nigerian international suffered a three-month injury layoff, which saw him miss Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2023 final with the Super Eagles.

Since his return in early April, Boniface has started just three matches out of his 12 appearances for the Bundesliga historic champions.

Ahead of Leverkusen's Europa League final showdown against Atalanta on Wednesday, Alonso provided an explanation for Boniface's current bench role.

"It's a good question," Alonso began, addressing the concerns of Nigerian fans according to a video by Nigerian journalist Oma.

The Spanish tactician went on to encourage Boniface to seize his opportunities and prove his worth to the coach.

"For sure, I like when someone is not playing and shows his character to prove (to me) 'coach, you were wrong, I had to be on the pitch.' So, that's the challenge, that's the professional,” he added.

“I am happy with Boniface, you know the impact that he has had this year for us - he has helped us so much and we are helping him too to be back on track. So, tell your people from Nigeria that we are happy with him."

With Leverkusen's season reaching a critical juncture, Boniface will be hoping to regain his place in the starting XI and help the club secure European glory in the Europa League final.

The Super Eagles star netted an incredible 14 goals and assisted eight more in just 18 starts to fire Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title and finish the season as the first German side to go undefeated.