Super Eagles legend Jay-Jay Okocha has lauded Nigerian international Ademola Lookman on winning the CAF Player of the Year award.

The Atalanta star became the sixth Nigerian international to clinch the award, following in the footsteps of Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amunike, Victor Ikpeba, Nwankwo Kanu, and Victor Osimhen.

Lookman, 27, who succeeded his Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen, had a remarkable campaign with Atalanta and the Super Eagles.

The former Leicester City loanee guided Gian Piero Gasperini's side to their first European title after scoring a sensational hat-trick in the Europa League final against Leverkusen.

He also led Nigeria to the final of the African Cup of Nations, scoring three goals in the knockout stages.

Okocha believes Lookman ticks all the boxes to be the African Best Player of the Year.

“The CAF Award is not just about how well you play on the pitch. Your attitude on the pitch, your reactions to fellow players, and your responses to coaches are all tested before we even talk about tactical performances.

“For Ademola Lookman to be awarded African Best Player of the Year, it simply means he has been examined on all these criteria and passed.”