Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has warned Nigerian striker Victor Boniface against leaving the bench prematurely after the forward reportedly walked down the tunnel during the club’s 4-3 Bundesliga victory over Mainz on Saturday.

Boniface was overlooked again when coach Carles Martínez made his final substitutions in the 84th minute, bringing on Equi Fernández and Jonas Hofmann for Aleix García and Patrik Schick.

The Nigerian reportedly headed to the dressing room rather than remain with his teammates on the bench after realising he would not feature in the match.

The incident has raised questions about the striker’s position at the German club, where he has struggled for playing time this season.

Boniface has made only one Bundesliga appearance this campaign, playing five minutes in Leverkusen’s opening-day 3-2 defeat to SV Elversberg. Despite his limited involvement, he provided an assist for Christian Kofane.

He was subsequently left out against Union Berlin, Leipzig and Mainz, while he did not feature at all against Augsburg.

Martínez said he had not noticed the reported walkout during the match but indicated that he would speak with the player.

“If that’s what happened, we’ll speak to him,” the coach said, adding that selection decisions were part of football.

Rolfes also addressed the incident, responding humorously while making clear that the behaviour should not be repeated.

“Perhaps he went into the dressing room a little too early today. It won’t happen next time,” the sporting director said.

Despite the warning, Rolfes praised Boniface’s improving fitness and professionalism, describing him as a good member of the squad and training group.

The Nigerian could have an opportunity to regain his place following an injury to fellow forward Christian Kofane.

Leverkusen’s Europa League trip to Lech Poznań on Thursday could offer Boniface a chance to feature, depending on the coach’s selection.

The striker will be hoping to turn his situation around as he seeks more playing time and a greater role in the team.