January 13, (THEWILL) – Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface might return to competitive action next week following his two-month absence due to a hamstring injury, manager Xabi Alonso confirmed during a pre-match press conference.
The Nigerian international, who sustained a thigh muscle injury in November, had contributed eight goals across 15 matches this season before his setback.
His potential comeback arrives at a crucial period for Leverkusen, who face five matches within a 15-day window.
The injury situation at Leverkusen remains mixed, with defender Jeanuel Belocian unavailable following an anterior cruciate ligament tear, while forward Amine Adli continues rehabilitation from a fracture.
However, Florian Wirtz will start against Mainz after featuring for 25 minutes during their recent 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund.
Leverkusen currently occupy second position in the Bundesliga standings with 35 points, trailing Bayern Munich by four points.
Their upcoming schedule includes a UEFA Champions League fixture against Atletico Madrid on January 21, followed by a domestic encounter with Borussia Moenchengladbach.
Addressing the packed fixture schedule, Alonso maintained a positive outlook.
He said, “Sometimes it is even good not to have much time and just keep playing. If we do not give 100 per cent on the pitch tomorrow against Mainz, we will face problems ahead.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
