Atletico Madrid boss, Diego Simeone, has hailed Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, following their 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid on Sunday.
La Liga clash between the Madrid giants ended in favour of Real, with Vinicius Junior scoring twice.
Lookman opened the scoring in the game, giving the visitors the lead in the 33rd minute. However, Real Madrid had the upper hand after minutes.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Simeone commended Lookman for his work ethic and tactical growth.
He, however, noted that the Nigerian forward needed to improve defensive wise.
Since joining the Rojiblancos, Lookman has demonstrated a remarkable ability to score on his debut appearances, netting in his first Madrid derby, as well as his Copa del Rey and Champions League debuts for the club.
At the 11-minute mark of the second half, Simeone made three substitutions, bringing on Sorloth, Nahuel Molina, and Nico González for Lookman, Griezmann, and Johnny Cardoso.
The Argentine coach evaluated the Nigerian player’s performance against Los Blancos and said the forward is doing well offensively and is getting better at defending.
He said, “Well, Lookman is improving, he’s been working very hard. The thing is, he’s been playing in different attacking roles, and we need him to do that.
“We’re also helping him get better at defending so he can support our team’s defense. He’s already able to do that because he’s a young player with a big heart and a strong desire to learn and get better.
“So that’s fantastic, and hopefully he’ll continue to contribute important moments like he did today.”
Lookman has now recorded nine goal involvements (five goals, four assists) in fourteen all-competition appearances for Atlético Madrid.