Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has explained his decision to substitute Ademola Lookman at half-time during his side’s La Liga clash against Espanyol last weekend.

After coming off the bench to seal his side’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United midweek, the Super Eagles star was handed a starting role against Espanyol but was withdrawn at the interval.

Julián Álvarez, who replaced the former African Footballer of the Year, provided the assist for the only goal of the game, scored by Álex Baena in the 89th minute.

Speaking about Lookman’s half-time substitution after the game, the Argentine tactician said: “We were looking to manage the minutes, the effort; we needed legs.”

Lookman has seen very little game time this season after losing his starting spot to the in-form Álex Baena.

Atlético Madrid will return to action in the UEFA Champions League when they travel to face Stuttgart on Tuesday, October 20.

WDN
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