Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has teased a potential center forward pairing of Victor Boniface and Patrick Schick ahead of his side’s DFB Pokal semi-final match against Arminia Bielefeld, Footynaija.com reports.
Boniface looks to be regaining the trust of his manager after losing his place in the team earlier this season due to injury and almost sealing a shock exit to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr during the January transfer window.
On Friday last week, he was involved in Alonso’s starting XI for the first time since early February when Die Werkself secured a 3-1 win over Bochum with the Nigeria international grabbing a 60th minute goal to restore his team’s lead.
In that game, Boniface played up top alongside Schick, mostly occupying the wide area while his strike partner operated from a more central position.
Alonso praised the Super Eagles forward for his return to form and ability to deliver the goods despite playing out of position, suggesting that the pair could get another run in against Bielefeld.
“Bielefeld has beaten three Bundesliga teams and is totally deserving of a place in the semifinals,” the Spaniard began during his pre-match conference, as revealed by Bild.
“We expect a tough opponent. We have to be cool, but we need a lot of energy. In our hearts, in our minds, with passion.
“I liked both [Boniface and Schick] of them against Bochum, especially in the second half. He [Boniface] did well.
“Boni is back at a good level and can certainly play from the start. With him, we have flexibility; he can play as a center-forward or as a winger.”
Alonso and his men will be looking to secure a ticket to their second consecutive DFB Pokal final appearance when they rock up to the Schuco Arena on Tuesday.