Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has opened up on the turning point behind Ademola Lookman's recent upturn in form following a difficult summer transfer window.

The Nigerian international had attempted to engineer a move to Inter Milan but was forced to return to Bergamo after the deal collapsed. 

However, he struggled to rediscover his usual form after rejoining the team in September, having initially been instructed to train individually.

The 28-year-old has recently enjoyed a timely resurgence, scoring in consecutive matches against Eintracht Frankfurt and Fiorentina

Speaking after Atalanta's 2-0 victory over Fiorentina on Sunday, Palladino revealed that a frank conversation between himself and Lookman helped clear the lingering effects of the transfer saga.

"With Lookman, I did exactly what I did with the rest of the team: I spoke individually," he said as quoted by Tuttoatalanta. 

"A few words were enough, because he's an intelligent guy who understands immediately. I was clear, he was very clear with me: we're going in the same direction because we both want to take Atalanta as high as possible." 

The Atalanta boss also praised Lookman's all-round contribution, noting that his defensive intensity has matched his attacking output.

"He's having a strong offensive phase, but I emphasize his defensive commitment: he's 100% in the game. I'm happy for his goals; he's an essential asset."

Lookman has now registered three goals and one assist in 13 appearances across all competitions this season.

With his form steadily rising, the forward will hope to maintain his momentum and reaffirm the qualities that have made him a fan favourite at the Gewiss Stadium.

Adeyemi Adewale