'Victor Boniface for Leverkusen' - Newcastle icon identifies Super Eagles star as Bayer's main man for goals

Newcastle United legend Shay Given believes that Bayer Leverkusen will depend on Victor Boniface as their main source for goals in Wednesday's Europa League final against Serie A side Atalanta.

Boniface is having a breakout season in what is his debut campaign in Germany, registering 31 goal involvements in 33 all-competition appearances following his move to the Werkself .

His superb start to life in Germany earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season title, following his Rookie of the Month wins for August, September, October, and November.

Since Boniface returned from a muscle injury that ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations, he has yet to force his way back into the Bayer Leverkusen starting lineup on a permanent basis, with manager Xabi Alonso giving him minutes from the start just three times from a possible twelve in all competitions. 

Given has insisted that Bayer Leverkusen have a striker in their ranks, Victor Boniface who can make the difference. 

In quotes relayed by UEFA's official website, former Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper Given said: "Both teams are quite offensive and like to score goals and create chances, but a final can be quite cagey.

"For Atalanta, you have Gianluca Scamacca, who missed out on the Europa Conference League final with West Ham last year, and Victor Boniface for Leverkusen.

"You always look at the strikers as the main men who are going to get the goals, and I think them two will probably have a lot to say as to where the trophy goes."

Boniface, looking at his stats, has shown he is a big-game player, having registered 23 goals (18 goals, 5 assists) in 30 outings in European competition. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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