The hero of Italian Serie A side Atalanta in their 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final Ademola Lookman says playing for the senior national team of Nigeria has made him a better player in a lot of ways, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Lookman hit a hattrick in yesterday’s final to lift his side to the title condemning the German side to their first defeat in all competitions this season. The Nigerian struck in the 12th, 26th and 75th minutes of the game.
The first was a left footed effort from inside the box after he ghosted unmarked from his far post position, the second goal saw him use his quick feet to go past his marker before hitting home a superb effort. The third with 15th minute left to play was more like the second as he left his marker in his dead with quick step overs before thundering home a left foot drive.
Speaking after the game, Lookman who represented England at various youth levels including winning the U20 World Cup in 2017 says his career which appeared to be going down the slope witnessed a revival, after his decision to play for the senior national team of Nigeria.
“It’s unbelievable, I think I said that in some previous interviews. The support I receive at home from my people is incredible, it gives me the motivation and inspiration I need to try to grow in different areas, not only with regard to football but also the person. Unfortunately in January at the AFCON we lost in the final, but the support was incredible.”
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
