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Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface will be included in the squad for their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night, Soccernet.football reports.
However, Alonso has made it clear the forward is not yet fit enough to feature in the starting lineup.
The 24-year-old has been out of action since November due to a thigh injury sustained while on international duty.
Despite resuming full training with the squad on Monday, Alonso emphasised the need for patience as Boniface continues his journey back to full fitness.
“He was okay. He’s much better,” Alonso said during a press conference in Madrid. “He can play, of course not from the start. He still needs training time.”
Boniface, who has been instrumental for Leverkusen this season with eight goals and one assist in 15 appearances across all competitions, has missed the club’s last 12 matches.
In Boniface’s absence, Patrik Schick has stepped up, delivering strong performances at the heart of the attack and providing Alonso with a reliable option up front.
Leverkusen, currently in a strong position in Group E with 13 points from six matches, know a win against second-placed Atletico Madrid (12 points) will all but guarantee their spot in the Round of 16. Alonso described the encounter as a high-stakes affair.
The Bundesliga champions will conclude their group stage campaign at home against Sparta Prague on January 29. With Atletico hot on their heels, Leverkusen understand the significance of securing a positive result in Madrid.
While Boniface’s full return is eagerly anticipated, Tuesday’s match will likely see him make a brief cameo as Leverkusen push for Champions League glory.
