Bayer Leverkusen manager Carles Martinez has explained the decision to leave Nigeria striker Victor Boniface out of the club’s UEFA Europa League squad ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Union Berlin.
Boniface was omitted from the continental squad despite an impressive pre-season, having endured a difficult loan spell at Werder Bremen last term.
Martinez told Kicker that the striker was still not fully fit when the squad was decided, though his recovery had since improved.
“Two months ago, when we started our preparations, this question was not to be expected. He wasn’t ready, he was in pain, his knee wasn’t doing so well, and physically he was very far behind,” Martinez said.
“But the good thing is that his knee is responding better. There are still occasional minor issues, but it’s much, much better. Because such a talent deserves a better year for him. And not just this year, but throughout his career.” Related News UCL: Ødegaard fires Arsenal to 1-0 win at Napoli Ronaldo hits 979th career goal as Al Nassr edge Abha 2-1 EPL: Estevao ready for bigger Chelsea role, says Alonso
