Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has lamented his side's missed opportunities in their 3-1 defeat to Napoli at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Saturday night, stressing that Ademola Lookman and the other forwards could have done better in front of goal.

Lookman, who has endured a difficult start to the season, featured for most of the encounter before being substituted in the 82nd minute for Daniel Maldini as Atalanta chased a late comeback.

The Nigerian forward has managed just one goal in eleven appearances across all competitions this season, and his struggles continued against Napoli. 

Lookman found it difficult to break through the hosts' compact defence, much to the frustration of Atalanta's travelling supporters.

He registered two attempts during the match, one on target and the other off target, but failed to significantly influence the game.

Speaking to  Sky Sport after the game, Palladino praised the impact of his substitutes, especially Gianluca Scamacca, who scored Atalanta's lone goal.

"Gianluca came on with the right spirit. I also liked the other substitutes: they all brought courage and quality," he said as quoted by Tuttoatalanta. 

However, the Italian tactician did not hold back in expressing disappointment over the wasted chances by his frontline.

"I have a strong forward lineup: Scamacca scored today, but we also came close with De Ketelaere, Lookman, and Samardzic. I expect a lot from them: they've done a great job, and there's a lot to build on." 

With the defeat compounding Atalanta's inconsistent start to the campaign, Lookman will be eager to rediscover his form as the Bergamo side looks to spark a revival under the new manager.

Adeyemi Adewale