Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has backed Victor Boniface to earn another opportunity at the club, insisting that the Nigerian striker must improve his fitness and continue working hard despite speculation over his future, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

“That doesn’t change Boni’s situation. He needs to stay fit, keep at it, and improve, then his opportunity will come. I’m not worried,” Rolfes said, as quoted by Transfermarkt.

The sporting director also expressed satisfaction with Boniface’s mental progress following a difficult period earlier in the year, noting that the striker now has a more positive outlook.

“Since then, he’s been in much better shape, mentally as well, and sees many more possibilities again,” he added.

Boniface has struggled for playing time this season, fuelling reports that the 25-year-old wants to leave Leverkusen during the January transfer window.

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The forward has made just one appearance for the Bundesliga side this campaign, playing five minutes in their 3-2 opening-day defeat to newly promoted SV Elversberg.

His limited involvement continued when Leverkusen opted against including him in their Europa League squad following Martin Terrier’s long-term injury. The club instead registered Jonas Hofmann as Terrier’s replacement, leaving Boniface out of the European competition.

The decision further fuelled speculation about the Nigerian’s future, with reports suggesting that his representatives had communicated a desire for him to leave in January.

Rolfes, however, acknowledged that Boniface still needs to improve certain aspects of his game, particularly his pressing and work off the ball, while stressing that the striker possesses other qualities that could benefit the team.

“Regarding intensity: Pressing and working hard off the ball wasn’t his core strength when he was playing and scoring. He has other qualities,” he said.

“We want to get his fitness level as high as possible so that he can showcase his qualities, which he undoubtedly possesses, even better,” Rolfes added.