News

Lookman could have played for England – Ex-Liverpool striker Peter Crouch

Former England international Peter Crouch has shared his thoughts on Atalanta attacker Ademola Lookman, who now plays for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.

Lookman was born in England to Nigerian parents, making him eligible to play for both the Three Lions and Nigeria. He chose to represent the Super Eagles, making his debut under Augustine Eguavoen in May 2022.

Since then, the former Everton forward has earned 21 caps and scored six goals, with half of those coming during his debut participation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Lookman Shines in Europa League

Lookman spent much of his career in the English league but struggled at Everton, leading to loan spells before finding his footing at RB Leipzig. His performances there caught the attention of Serie A side Atalanta BC.

Recently, Lookman delivered an impressive performance in the 2023-24 UEFA Europa League final, scoring a hat-trick to secure a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.

This feat was praised by Crouch and former Chelsea forward Joe Cole, who both believe Lookman’s name will be remembered by Atalanta fans.

“This is why you play football. Lookman, who’s been a footballing nomad, has finally found a home and scored a hat-trick in a European cup final,” Crouch told TNT Sport. “It’s an amazing story, and those fans will never forget the name Ademola Lookman.”

Cole echoed these sentiments, highlighting Lookman’s journey from South London’s street football to European success.

“For Lookman, a kid from Wandsworth, who played in the cages, he’s found a home here,” Cole said. “His name will be etched into the club’s history. This is what the moments are all about.”

Crouch on Lookman Playing for Super Eagles

According to OGN, Crouch believes Lookman could have played for the England senior team had he been more patient.

The AFCON 2023 hero rose through the ranks, playing for England’s youth teams, including the U-16 and U-19 squads.

“He could have easily played for England like his U20 teammates if he was patient,” Crouch said.

Lookman will next feature for the Super Eagles in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic, as named in Finidi George’s squad list.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

Share
Published by
Ayomide Oguntimehin

Recent Posts

Borussia Dortmund join Manchester United in the pursuit of 17-year-old Nigeria-eligible Austrian striker

Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United are in pursuit of Nigeria-eligible Austrian striker, Oghenetejiri Adejenughure after… Read More

5 hours ago

Super Eagles star who impressed against South Africa set for Lazio medical – Report

Former Sheffield United midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, heavily linked with a move to Italian Serie A… Read More

6 hours ago

Official: Chidera Ejuke becomes the first Super Eagles player to join Sevilla

Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke has completed a free transfer to Spanish Laliga side Sevilla,… Read More

6 hours ago

Finidi George reveals real reason he stepped down as Super Eagles coach – Report

Former Ajax winger, Finidi George, has revealed the reason why he stepped down from the… Read More

8 hours ago

NFF’s treatment of Finidi George: A greater insult than Victor Osimhen’s ugly public outburst

While the public feud between Victor Osimhen and Finidi George has dominated headlines, a more… Read More

9 hours ago

Top six players that snubbed Nigeria to play at the Euros

The 2024 Euros is already in full swing, with 24 of the best teams in… Read More

9 hours ago