Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has expressed confidence in Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman’s ability to quickly return to top form after his return from the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Lookman was instrumental for Nigeria at AFCON, scoring three goals and providing four assists as the Super Eagles secured the bronze medal with a 1-0 win over Egypt in the third-place playoff.

Speaking ahead of the UEFA Champions League clash against Union Saint-Gilloise, Palladino revealed that the Nigerian international has rejoined the team brimming with motivation.

"Lookman has returned well, with the right spirit,” Palladino said, according to Tutto Atalanta. 

Palladino added that the Nigerian international will need time to regain his best form for the Bergamo club but praised his mentality and readiness to contribute whenever needed.

“Obviously, when you return after 40 days in a different context and another competition, you need a moment to get back into the rhythm and rhythms you left behind weeks earlier. But the boy has the right mentality to make himself available immediately,” he added.

He, however, hinted that the Nigerian international could start against the Belgian side, as Atalanta will need a win to keep their hopes of automatic qualification for the Round of 16 alive.

“Starter? We'll see. Maybe, maybe not. Like him, everyone is available," he revealed.

Lookman, who struggled at the start of the season, has rediscovered his form under the guidance of Raffaele Palladino.

The Nigerian international has scored one goal and provided two assists in Atalanta’s last three UEFA Champions League matches.

Palladino will be eager for the Super Eagles forward to maintain this momentum as Atalanta aim for a positive result on Wednesday night.

Adeyemi Adewale