Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has admitted that Ademola Lookman is being asked to play in a position that does not suit him, Footynaija reports.
Simeone apologised to the Nigeria forward after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal, with Lookman again used as a centre-forward.
The 28-year-old has yet to score in Atletico’s first two matches of the campaign. He also started the season up front in the win over Málaga.
Simeone explained that injuries have forced him to use Lookman in a central role. Alexander Sørloth is injured, while Julián Álvarez is still recovering.
“I apologized to Ademola Lookman, first, in the locker room, telling him: ‘I know it’s not your place, you were supposed to help us because right now Alexander Sørloth is injured, Julián Álvarez is recovering very well, and he’s the one helping us.'” Simeone said via Futbol Fantasy.
The Atletico boss said Lookman has worked hard for the team despite being unable to play his natural game.
“I understand, and I know him, that he’s a good guy. He’s putting in a tremendous effort, especially in the team’s work,” he added.
Lookman is at his best when he can attack defenders, move into space and get chances to score. Simeone admitted that the current role has taken those qualities away from his game.
“He’s missing what he enjoys, which is dribbling, scoring goals, and taking on defenders one-on-one. And we’re going to give him that back, obviously, when we have the forwards available to share those spaces on the field that make us better as a team,” he concluded.
With the transfer window close to shutting, Atletico will hope their injured forwards return soon. That would allow Simeone to move Lookman back into a role where he can use his pace, dribbling and finishing.
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