Atalanta manager, Gian Piero Gasperini has revealed the secret to getting the best out of Ademola Lookman, who has transformed into one of the most dangerous players in the world since joining the club two years ago, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Lookman, 26, struggled during his time with RB Leipzig and was subsequently loaned to Fulham and Leicester City before finding his footing with Atalanta.
Gasperini's guidance has been instrumental in unlocking the Nigeria international's potential, with Lookman becoming La Dea's top scorer last season and maintaining his consistent form this term.
"Lookman is a top player today, but he wasn't before," Gasperini told Football Italia.
"He was strong, but tended to light up in flashes and at other times would disappear from the game. He was the same in training sessions."
Gasperini attributed Lookman's success to his patient approach, saying: "I worked with him using the patience of an artisan craftsman. What he did in the last few weeks feels like his maturity. He wants the ball, participates in the game, works with his teammates."
Lookman's impressive form has seen him score 16 goals and provide eight assists for Atalanta this season, including a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen last week.
His hat-trick ended the Nerrazurri’s 61 year wait for a major trophy.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun