Boniface Faces Bremen Selection Doubt, Iwobi Ruled Out Of Arsenal Clash

Werder Bremen head coach Daniel Thioune has suggested Victor Boniface could miss the matchday squad for the club’s upcoming Bundesliga fixture against FC Augsburg as competition for places intensifies.

Boniface, who arrived on loan in the summer, has endured an injury-hit campaign and recently recovered from a knee problem. The striker returned to training last week but was not involved in Bremen’s 1-1 draw with VfB Stuttgart.

Speaking ahead of the Augsburg clash, Thioune said squad competition has grown following the return of key players such as Marco Friedl and Marco Grüll.

“It was crucial for Victor to return. He performed well last week,” Thioune stated via Bild. “With the return of Marco Friedl and Marco Grüll, I will have to make decisions that may exclude one or two players.”

The Bremen boss added that Boniface’s physical style could help against Augsburg but stressed he has alternatives.

“I also have other physically robust strikers in the squad. For instance, we have greatly appreciated the contributions of Salim Musah. Jovan Milosevic possesses a similar profile,” he remarked.

Thioune said the final selection will depend on training performances. “Therefore, I will await the final training session. Everyone must earn their place in the squad and their time on the field,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Alex Iwobi will miss Fulham’s trip to Arsenal after manager Marco Silva confirmed the midfielder is still sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Iwobi picked up the problem during Fulham’s goalless draw with Brentford and also sat out last weekend’s 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Craven Cottage.

“Alex (Iwobi) is out still, plus Kevin,” Silva told a press conference ahead of the London derby.

The 29-year-old has scored four goals and provided three assists in 27 league appearances this season.