Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has praised Nigerian striker Victor Boniface following his impressive goal against Newcastle United in a pre-season encounter.
The Nigeria international was introduced in the closing stages of the game and scored the winning goal to secure a 2-1 victory for the German side over the Premier League club.
Boniface showed great composure after receiving the ball on the edge of the box, brilliantly dummied his marker before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Speaking to Bild, Rolfes expressed his delight at seeing Boniface score in front of a large crowd, describing the finish as a fantastic goal.
"He scored a fantastic goal. We're very happy for Boni that he managed to score in front of such a crowd,” Rolfes said.
The Leverkusen sporting director also praised Boniface's movement and ability to create shooting opportunities when defenders close him down.
“When the opponent blocks like that and then makes that movement inside, that's quality. And when the opponent doesn't block, he blasts the ball towards goal with incredible speed.”
He further described Boniface's return to producing such moments as a positive development for the forward.
“The fact that he's capable of those kinds of moves again is a positive development,” he concluded.
The Super Eagles striker has struggled with injuries in recent campaigns, with his fitness issues affecting his confidence, rhythm and overall performances.
Despite showing encouraging signs when fit, his recurring injury problems have created uncertainty over his future at the BayArena ahead of the new campaign.
Following his latest goal, Boniface will be hoping to build on the performance, maintain his fitness and regain his best form as he looks to revive his career.
Wale Adejumo
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