Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman bagged his first league start of the season in his side’s goalless draw against Lazio last night, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 27-year-old played 82 minutes at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo before Daniel Maldini replaced him.
Despite the result of the game being a point, the club coach, Ivan Juric, was pleased with how his team performed against Maurizio Sarri’s side.
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“It is a performance where we created lots of chances, there were situations where we could’ve done better and scored goals against a team that defended well,” said Juric in his press conference.
“These dropped points are starting to accumulate now, despite the performances being overall pretty good.
“I think the team should continue like this. We have ideas and good football, we are just missing the end product, the goals.
“On Wednesday, we are up against an aggressive opponent [Slavia Praha], but we will try to match them man for man.”
Juric pleased with Lookman’s performance
The England-born Nigerian forward played as a false-nine yesterday, and the former Southampton manager lauded his impact.
“I thought Ademola made the right moves and created a few chances. We also finally saw the real Ederson today, and this means we can look to the future with confidence.
“Ademola, in the second half, turned on completely, making a difference. I also liked how he covered the headband in the final minutes, doing impeccable defensive work.
“He was unlucky in the header, miraculously saved by the goalkeeper, but his try remains of the highest level.
“It’s growing and I expect it to continue like this,” the 50-year-old concluded.
Atalanta are currently five points behind Serie A leaders, AC Milan. The Rosonerri have accrued 16 points from seven league games.