Werder Bremen coach speaks on continued problems with Victor Boniface | OneFootball

While Victor Boniface may be making a name for himself with his ‘abstract art’ instagram posts, the Nigerian international has yet to truly arrive at his new Bundesliga club Werder Bremen. In point of fact, the Bayer Leverkusen loanee has logged only 84 minutes of action off the bench in four substitute appearances. He’s registered just one assist.

Something is clearly wrong with the 24-year-old; something beyond his bizarre social media activity. Germany’s Transfermarkt has opted to devalue Bonifiace in their October market value update. To be precise, the transfermarkt team halved Boniface’s estimated market value. A €40m-valued player is now appraised at €20m.

Bremen coach Horst Steffen answered questions about Boniface at his Thursday pre-match press conference. Steffen confirmed that he would not be turning to the 13-times-capped Super Eagle international against FC Heidenheim this weekend. This despite the fact that Bremen are beset by injuries and need the help.

“His plan to get into top form continues,” Steffen said. “He’s on the path, but it should be clear that there will be no great leap forward. Things will only improve little by little. There are days when I think he’s doing well, but also days when I can tell he needs more work.”

Bremen thus remain without a classic No. 9 to lead their attack. Austrian veterans Marco Grüll and Romano Schmid have been taking turns starting at the very top. Boniface – along with German youngsters Justin Njinmah and Keke Topp – have filled the role later in matches.

“And I think we’ve talked about Victor often enough now,” Steffen concluded. “The topics are repeating themselves.”

GGFN | Peter Weis