Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman says he is focused on helping Atalanta build momentum after scoring and assisting in their 3–0 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday night.
The 28-year-old opened his Champions League account for the season and set up another as Atalanta moved to 10th in the league phase standings.
“I think it’s important right now to get the victory, as 3-0 away from home is a really good result,” Lookman told Sky Sport Italia.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Lookman impressed in a fluid attacking trio with Charles De Ketelaere who scored, assisted, and won player of the match and Gianluca Scamacca. He said the quality and freedom in Atalanta’s frontline helps bring out the best in him.
“Obviously, it’s very free and easy playing with Scamacca and De Ketelaere, because they are quality players. We just have to keep on working and improving as a team, we take this performance and hope to carry it on in the league,” he added.
He also praised manager Raffaele Palladino’s clear attacking identity, with the win marking the coach’s first victory after defeat to Napoli.
“The Mister has a very clear idea of attacking and entertaining football, which you can see in the goals that we scored. Obviously, the DNA of pressing and hard work is in the team anyway, and we have to keep that going.”
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Lookman then reflected on the difficult moments that shaped the early part of his season including his refusal to train after a blocked transfer to Inter Milan and a touchline clash with former coach Ivan Juric before the manager’s dismissal.
“You know, what’s happened has happened. A lot’s gone on. Some things people know, others they don’t,” he said.
READ MORE:mikel-open-to-nff-role-after-nigerias-world-cup-failure
Despite the turbulence, Lookman insists his focus is now fully on consistency, unity and results.
“Right now is the time to work hard for the team and we need to win games, that’s the most important thing, to get stronger every day. That is what I am concentrated on and so is the team, working together every day to get results.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Lookman has managed 1 goal in 8 league outings and another in 3 Champions League matches, taking his tally to 2 in 12 this season after a difficult start.
