Boniface's training metrics plummet but hope prevails at Leverkusen
| Photo: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images. |
According to reports from the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, Victor Boniface’s training metrics are well behind those of his Bayer Leverkusen teammates.
The striker lags behind in almost every category, especially sprints and intensity, while his knee is still not considered fully fit to withstand match loads.
At present, it apparently only allows him to play for 20 to 30 minutes per game. The message to Boniface internally is repeatedly: stay patient, keep working.
Martinez relies heavily on data and, when in doubt, would rather plan without a player he considers a risk. Boniface reportedly lacks an understanding of this approach.
At the same time, Rolfes and other club officials value his quality — and are amazed that he has managed to get back to this level at all. As a goalscorer, some believe he should not be judged solely on data.
The aim is reportedly for the fans’ favorite, who is loudly cheered every time he comes on as a substitute, to be fit enough in January to play a half at Bundesliga level.
Boniface already feels ready to do more. Word from the club is that his dissatisfaction is also being felt in the dressing room and that they want him to put in more extra work.
He has reportedly instructed his agent to explore another loan move in January. Most recently, Sky Germany reported two concrete inquiries without naming the clubs.
Not everyone at the club is convinced a loan is the right move, because Boniface would then have to prove himself in a new environment all over again.
