Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has sought to calm talk over Victor Boniface’s future, saying the Nigerian forward needs to build his fitness and wait for further chances in the side.

Sky Sports reports that Boniface is considering a move away from the Bundesliga club once the January transfer window begins, having found regular minutes difficult to come by.

Rolfes, though, believes the 25-year-old still has the ability to play an important role for Leverkusen if he works on the issues the club has highlighted.

“That does not alter Boni’s position. He has to remain fit, continue working and improve, and then his chance will come. I have no concerns,” Rolfes said.

The Leverkusen executive also said Boniface’s attitude and mood had become more positive over recent weeks, with the striker appearing to recognise that more openings could emerge.

Rolfes stressed that the attacker must improve his work when Leverkusen do not have the ball, while also underlining the strengths he brings in attacking situations.

“When he was playing and scoring, starting matches and working without the ball were not his main strengths. He has different qualities. We want to get his fitness to the highest possible level so he can show the abilities he clearly has more effectively,” he added.

Boniface rejoined Leverkusen after a loan spell at Werder Bremen last season, but concerns over his physical condition and strong competition within the squad have restricted his attempts to secure a regular place this term.