Simeone Turns to Lookman as Emergency Striker in Atletico's Season Opener

Ademola Lookman was handed an unfamiliar central striker's role by Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone as the Spanish club opened their La Liga campaign with a 2-0 win over Malaga.

Simeone turned to the Nigerian forward after Julian Alvarez was left out of the matchday squad and Alexander Sorloth was sidelined through injury, leaving the Argentine coach short of recognised centre-forward options.

Explaining the switch, Simeone said he wanted "creativity" from the position, adding: "Trying to look for what can make us better because we do not have at this moment a forward who can give us something from the beginning." He said the club hopes to strengthen the position as the transfer window progresses.

Lookman completed a move to Atletico Madrid this year after a decorated spell at Atalanta, where he won the UEFA Europa League. His versatility, comfortable across the front line, is likely to keep him involved in a central role for spells this season even after Atletico add further attacking reinforcements, depending on the opponent.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria