Injury: Boniface faces extended injury layoff ahead of Bayer Leverkusen vs Borussia Dortmund clash

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed that Nigerian forward Victor Boniface remains sidelined ahead of Friday’s Bundesliga showdown against Borussia Dortmund.

Boniface, 24, has been out for seven weeks following a thigh injury sustained during Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda in November.

His recovery has faced a minor setback, delaying his anticipated return to action.

The striker had been tipped for a comeback after resuming full training before Christmas but was notably absent from the squad in Sunday’s friendly against Rot-Weiß Oberhausen.

A statement on the club’s website clarified his status: “Victor Boniface’s return has been delayed due to a minor issue in his rehabilitation.”

Boniface last featured for Leverkusen in their 1-1 draw with VfL Bochum on November 9.

Before his injury, he had an impressive tally of eight goals in 15 matches across all competitions.