Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has described Ademola Lookman as one of the worst penalty-takers.

Gasperini said this after his side lost 3-1 to Club Brugge in the Champions League round of 16 play-offs.

Lookman had earlier scored an important goal in the game and was given a chance to score a penalty that would have enabled Atalanta to fight back to avoid knockout after losing the first leg of this play-off 2-1.

The Super Eagles player, however, lost the spot kick, infuriating Gasperini, who did not hold back in his assessment of the player’s decision to take the spot-kick.

“Ademola Lookman is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen,” Gasperini said.

The Atalanta boss revealed that Lookman took the ball despite other designated takers being available.

“He wanted to take the penalty after scoring a goal. He took the ball despite Retegui and De Keteleare being available to take it… I didn’t like what Lookman did,” Gasperini added.

The missed penalty proved costly as Atalanta failed to overturn their deficit, resulting in their elimination from the competition.

Gasperini was also asked if he had any regrets about bringing Lookman from the bench instead of starting him.

“I have more news than you do on his condition,” replied the coach. “Lookman’s first game with the team was yesterday and until a couple of days ago he struggled to kick the ball. It’s too easy to criticise when you don’t know the situation.”

ASA