Bayer Leverkusen manager, Carles Martínez has praised Nigerian forward, Victor Boniface following his brief appearance in the club's 5-2 victory over 1. FC Nürnberg in the DFB Cup.
Boniface has found regular playing opportunities difficult to come by since the beginning of the season. However, he was given a chance to feature late in the encounter at the BayArena, coming on for Jonas Hofmann in the closing stages.
Although the Nigerian international spent just over three minutes on the pitch, his contribution was enough to earn positive remarks from Martínez.
Speaking after the match, the Leverkusen coach admitted that he understood Boniface's frustration over his limited involvement, noting that the striker was eager to play a more significant role in the team.
“I’m happy for him because I know he wanted to play and be important,” Martínez said via Liga Insider. “He was good in those few minutes.”
The appearance against Nürnberg was Boniface's second outing of the campaign, having previously featured as a substitute in Leverkusen's season-opening fixture against SV Elversberg.
The 25-year-old will now be hoping to turn his limited opportunities into more regular appearances as he works towards regaining his best form.
With the Leverkusen coach acknowledging his determination to contribute, Boniface will be eager to make a stronger impression and establish himself in the team's plans for the remainder of the season.
Bayer Leverkusen manager Martínez reacts to Boniface's performance in 5-2 win