Bayer Leverkusen’s head coach, Xabi Alonso, has outlined two key conditions for star striker Victor Boniface’s participation in their upcoming Bundesliga match against Werder Bremen.

Following an accident after last weekend’s win over Eintracht Frankfurt, Boniface’s fitness remains uncertain. He missed the UEFA Champions League fixture against Brest on Wednesday, with Francis Onyeka stepping in as his replacement.

Alonso explained in a pre-match press conference, as cited by Liga Insider, that Boniface needs to be both “physically and mentally” prepared to join the travelling squad. “If he feels good,” Alonso stated, “today’s final training session will be the test. If he’s fit in both aspects, he’ll travel to Bremen.”

The 23-year-old forward has been crucial for Leverkusen this season and played a key role in last season’s 5-0 home victory over Bremen, though he went goalless in the reverse 3-0 fixture.

Alonso is optimistic that Boniface’s readiness will contribute to Leverkusen’s quest to secure full points, aiming to tighten the gap behind Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig at the top of the table.