Diego Simeone has urged Ademola Lookman to improve his overall contribution despite the Nigerian forward equalling a club record in Atletico Madrid’s 4-2 win over Espanyol.
Speaking after the La Liga victory, Simeone praised Lookman’s goal-scoring instinct but stressed that the 28-year-old must adapt further to Atletico’s tactical demands.
“Lookman brings us goals, more goals than overall play,” Simeone said. “He can still improve his overall play and defensive work.
Diego Simeone. Photo Credit: Imago
“We need him to adapt to the team’s way of playing in those aspects. His message is that he wants to improve as a footballer.
“He has that goal-scoring instinct, those goals he has scored are no coincidence. But we also need more from him in the overall game.”
Lookman was on target as Atletico secured their first league win in four matches at the Metropolitano. It was his first La Liga goal, coming in just his third appearance in the competition for the Rojiblancos.
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The Nigeria international reacted quickest to a flick-on from Alexander Sørloth to score Atletico’s third goal in the 58th minute, helping his side to a 4-2 victory.
Lookman. Photo Credit: Imago
According to Opta statistics, the strike marked Lookman’s sixth goal involvement since joining Atletico four goals and two assists across all competitions a return matched only by former striker Luis Suarez in his early appearances for the club.
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Atletico had fallen behind early through Jofre Carreras before Sørloth restored parity in the first half. Álex Baena gave the hosts the lead shortly after the break, with Sørloth later adding a fourth to seal the win.
