Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has said he didn’t want to offend Ademola Lookman following his outburst in the aftermath of the club’s defeat to Club Brugge.

Gasperini blamed Lookman for taking a penalty kick in Tuesday’s home loss, saying that the striker was “one of the worst penalty kick takers” he had ever seen.

The Nigeria international hit back, saying that manager’s words had been disrespectful.

The Italian has now clarified he didn’t want to upset the winger with his comment.

“Lookman felt offended, but I didn’t want to offend anyone. He entered with fantastic approach against Club Brugge,” he was quoted by TMW.

“If he starts training to improve on penalties… with his exceptional skills Ademola can become our first penalty taker.”
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