Bayer manager identifies replacement in case Boniface is named in Super Eagles AFCON squad 

Victor Boniface is a certainty to be included in Nigeria's squad of up to twenty seven players for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, barring an injury before the tournament in Ivory Coast. 

The former Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker has forced his way into reckoning following a brilliant start to his career in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen. 

Since the start of the season, the 22-year-old has played in every single game contested by the Super Eagles - five in total.

Boniface has emerged as a key player for Bayer Leverkusen, registering 11 goals and six assists in 16 all-competition appearances, and was named Bundesliga Rookie of the Month for three consecutive months. 

The Nigeria national teamer could miss five Bundesliga matches if the Super Eagles go all the way to the Africa Cup of Nations final. 

Bayer Leverkusen will have a reduced squad during the Africa Cup of Nations as five of their players could potentially represent their respective countries, including the Nigerian duo of Nathan Tella and Boniface, Odilon Kossounou (Ivory Coast), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso) and Amine Adli (Morocco).

According to German newspaper Bild, Patrik Schick will step into the shoes of Boniface if he's included in the Nigeria squad to the AFCON.

The Czech Republic international is nearing a return to full fitness after the injury troubles that have plagued him over the past one year. 

"We wait and see. Patrik is in a good mood, he is strong. But with him: We are in no hurry!" Alonso emphasized.

Alonso confirmed that Tella and Boniface returned from international duty fit and healthy, and are available for selection on Saturday afternoon against Werder Bremen.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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