Lookman comes under scrutiny following poor form

By Amaechi Agbo

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has come under fire for his poor run of form after another disappointing performance in Atletico Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Deportivo de La Coruña in LaLiga.

Atletico Madrid insider Jesus Colino expressed concern over the Nigerian international’s declining performances following Saturday’s encounter, questioning his overall contribution to the Spanish club.

Lookman started the match but was substituted by manager Diego Simeone at half-time after struggling to make an impact during the opening 45 minutes.

The substitution marked the third time in four LaLiga fixtures that the 28-year-old forward had been withdrawn before the start of the second half.

This has further raised questions about his current form.

According to Colino’s assessment of the Nigerian’s performance for Spanish sports newspaper AS, Lookman offered little attacking threat against Deportivo.

“He was the Atletico player who touched the ball the least, and in Deportivo’s half, all but one of his passes were backwards,” Colino said.

“He didn’t attempt a single dribble either. Substituted at half-time. His form continues to decline,” he added.

Despite Atletico securing all three points, Lookman’s underwhelming display continued a difficult spell in domestic competition, where he has struggled to reproduce the attacking influence expected of him.

However, the forward’s struggles in LaLiga contrast with his contributions in European competition.

He scored against Manchester United before providing an assist in Atletico Madrid’s 1-1 draw against VfB Stuttgart.

Lookman will now be hoping to rediscover his best form and deliver more consistent performances as he seeks to strengthen his position in Simeone’s plans.