Ademola Lookman reveals Simeone’s advice that helped him score against Manchester United

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman expressed his delight following Atletico Madrid's 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League on Tuesday.

​The 28-year-old attacker was introduced from the bench in the 71st minute to replace Alex Baena. Just three minutes after coming on, he drew a straight red card from Leny Yoro, who brought him down to deny a clear goal-scoring opportunity.

​Five minutes later, the Nigerian star found the net, pouncing on the rebound of a saved Jonathan David shot to poke the ball home from close range.

Atletico Madrid's Ademola Lookman. (Photo by Imago)

​Lookman remained a constant threat throughout his cameo, continually giving the Manchester United defense problems with his sharp movement in the final third.

​Speaking after the final whistle, he was asked what coach Diego Simeone told him prior to his game-changing display. Lookman revealed that his manager simply urged him to bring intensity on both sides of the ball.

​”Simeone told me to just bring the energy, try and help the team defensively and offensively,” Lookman said.

​Ademola Lookman Ends 8-Game Goal Drought

Ademola Lookman of Atletico Madrid against Manchester United. Copyright: ImagoxDavidxCanalesx

​Lookman also reflected on the relief of getting back on the scoresheet. Prior to Tuesday's match, he had gone eight consecutive games without a goal for both club and country.

​He was quick to credit his teammates for setting the platform and reiterated his satisfaction with the result.

Ademola Lookman of Atletico Madrid. Copyright: ImagoxCesarxCebollax/xPRESSINx

​”I'm very happy to come on and help the team; it's important. The guys put in a big shift before I came on, which made it easier to slot in and play, so I'm really pleased with the collective effort.

​”This win gives us huge confidence heading into our next fixture against Espanyol.”

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The strike was Lookman's first of the campaign in the UEFA Champions League, and he will be eager to maintain that momentum in front of goal for Atletico Madrid.

​Up next for the Colchoneros is a La Liga clash against Espanyol on Saturday, where Lookman will hope his decisive substitute appearance earns him a spot in the starting eleven.

​Having endured a slow start to the season, this performance provides welcome relief and gives him solid footing to build on moving forward.