Ademola Lookman: Peter Crouch on 'amazing story' of 'footballing nomad' after hat-trick inspires Atalanta to success
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ByOli Gent
Updated 23/05/2024 at 05:53 GMT
TNT Sports pundits Peter Crouch and Joe Cole were left enamoured by Ademola Lookman's hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, where Atalanta shocked an undefeated Bayer Leverkusen 3-0. Xabi Alonso's runaway Bundesliga champions arrived as firm favourites after 51 games undefeated, but they were humbled in Dublin as Lookman showed his clinical nature in front of goal.
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TNT Sports experts Peter Crouch and Joe Cole were left incredulous at Ademola Lookman’s hat-trick performance in the UEFA Europa League final as Atalanta thrashed Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in Dublin.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side ruined Xabi Alonso’s side's prospective ‘unbeaten Treble’ with a scintillating display, powered by the electric Lookman, who scored all three goals for the Italian side.
Lookman, who grew up in south London, had played for a whole host of clubs in England - as well as a loan spell in Germany - before settling down in Italy, finding a place to call home in Bergamo.
His journey - and his performance - wowed former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur striker Crouch.
“Honestly, this is why you play football,” Crouch said. “Somebody like Lookman, who’s been around, a footballing nomad at times, somebody who’s been Sunday League, to Charlton, to Fulham on loan, Leicester, Leipzig, he’s gone around the houses to get to the moment where he’s found a home today and scored a hat-trick in a European final. It’s an amazing story.
“Those fans will never forget the name of Ademola Lookman. It’s absolutely sensational.
"It’s really emotional for him. Obviously his family, I’m sure. It was a footballing masterclass from Gasperini. They were brilliant as a team, but I’m so pleased for Lookman.”
Joe Cole agreed, highlighting Lookman’s route to stardom, and his south London roots.
“For Lookman, a kid from Wandsworth, who played in the cages, playing street football, going around the houses, not finding a place where he’s at home, he’s found a home here,” Cole said.
“They will love him forever. His name will be etched into the club’s history. This is what the moments are all about.
“A kid, who couldn’t find a club, couldn’t find a home, super talented, he’s gone and done it. Fair play to him and his family. Enjoy the moment.”
Cole also waxed lyrical about the tactical masterstroke deployed by the Atalanta manager Gasperini.
“Gasperini is a really talented manager and he's finally got the silverware at this club,” Cole continued.
“His quote, when talking about the Super League, he said ‘we as a club, we can give hope to the rest of football as a meritocracy’. It’s what makes the game beautiful.
"A little club like Atalanta can come and take on the greats of Europe and go and win.”
‘One of the best nights of my life’, says hat-trick hero Lookman
Ademola Lookman could hardly find the words to describe his delight as he spoke to TNT Sports post-match.
Clutching his player of the match award and showcasing a huge grin, the Nigerian forward said: “One of the best nights of my life.
“Amazing performance from the team. We did it. I’ve not got much to say. Third time lucky. They always say third time lucky. I’m happy we won today. I’m pleased. 100%, got to celebrate. We made history tonight.”
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