Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has aimed a subtle dig at Nigerian international Ademola Lookman following his side's 4-0 thrashing of Monza in Serie A.

The reigning African Footballer of the Year ended his goal drought after netting Atalanta's third goal of the game in the 47th minute, following Charles De Ketelaere’s brace that gave La Dea a two-goal advantage in the first half.

Marco Brescianini added the fourth goal with three minutes left to play, sealing a remarkable victory for the Bergamo-based club.

Despite the emphatic victory over Monza, Gasperini, who was displeased with his team's performance, had some strong words for his players, including Lookman.

“Lookman did well in the second half; I wasn’t too happy with him in the first,” he said, as quoted by Football Italia.

“We can’t afford to lose focus—we’re very close to our goal, and we need the enthusiasm to keep flying and reach another important milestone. Wasting it due to lapses in concentration would be a real shame.”

Atalanta currently sit third in Serie A, five points ahead of in-form AS Roma, now managed by veteran coach Claudio Ranieri.

La Dea were in contention for the Scudetto title until three consecutive defeats shattered their hopes.

WDN