Werder Bremen sporting director Clemens Fritz has expressed strong backing for striker Victor Boniface, drawing a notable comparison between the Nigerian international and one of the club’s most iconic forwards. 

Speaking during SV Werder Bremen's general meeting on Sunday afternoon, Fritz described the Bayer Leverkusen loanee as a player who can thrive in the supportive environment at the Bundesliga club.

Boniface, currently spending a long weekend off with head coach Horst Steffen's squad in Athens, was not present at the gathering. 

However, Fritz made it clear the club remains committed to helping the 24-year-old find his best form. 

"I know that a lot is expected of him. Victor is a player who needs a good environment, and he has that here at Werder," the club’s managing director of football said, as quoted by Deichstube.

Fritz acknowledged that Boniface arrived in Bremen during the summer with limited match fitness due to previous injuries. 

As a result, he has seen reduced minutes in the early stages of his loan spell, often starting games on the bench. 

But the sporting chief emphasized that the club is confident in the forward’s potential and development path.

In a striking comparison, Fritz recalled the early days of former Werder favourite Ailton, who grew into a Bundesliga superstar during his time in Bremen. 

"When I see Victor, I sometimes think back to Ailton's early days. Like Ailton with Thomas Schaaf back then, Victor has a coach in Horst Steffen who takes intensive care of him and challenges him at the same time," Fritz said.

Ailton remains a celebrated figure in Werder Bremen history, especially for his remarkable 28-goal contribution in the club’s double-winning 2003/04 season. 

While Boniface is still far from such legendary status, he has played only eight competitive matches for the Green-Whites so far, and Fritz believes time is essential.

Although the striker is still waiting for his first goal in Werder colours, his recent performances and training efforts have shown signs of progress. 

Off the pitch, he has occasionally drawn attention for his social media activity, but the club maintains full trust in his commitment.

Fritz expects the one-year loan — which does not include an option to buy — to prove beneficial for both player and club. 

"I am firmly convinced that he will live up to expectations," Fritz stated. "We at Werder will continue to give Victor time and the necessary support. And Victor wants to repay that trust."

Wale Adejumo

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