Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has described Ademola Lookman as a very important member of his squad after the Super Eagles forward rediscovered his scoring touch in Tuesday’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Manchester United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Lookman came off the bench to score in the 79th minute at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, reacting quickest to slot home the rebound after United goalkeeper Senne Lammens parried Jonathan David’s effort.
The goal ended a six-game spell without scoring for the 28-year-old, who had managed just one goal across all competitions this season before the encounter. It also marked his 100th senior club goal, according to Transfermarkt.
Speaking after the match, Simeone praised Lookman’s attacking qualities, highlighting his goal-scoring record and ability to beat opponents in one-on-one situations.
“He is a very important player; he has very good stats, he scores goals, he is good in one-on-one situations,” the Argentine said.
However, the Atletico boss believes the Nigerian international is still working towards consistently displaying his full potential.
“He is not at that point where that comes through, but he has rediscovered his scoring touch. He had the instinct to follow up the play and the rebound worked in his favour. We got the win we needed,” he said.
Atletico made an immediate impact, with Pablo Barrios opening the scoring inside the first minute before Lookman added the second in the closing stages.
Manchester United’s task became more difficult when Leny Yoro was sent off in the 74th minute for a last-man foul on David.
The victory extended Atletico’s winning streak to five matches, while United’s winless run reached five games.