Lookman scores for Atalanta against as Gasperini gets board backing

 Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman scored as Atalanta beat Genoa 2-0 in a Serie A encounter at the Gewiss Stadium.

The winger opened the scoring for La Dea in the 68th minute.

Lookman has now scored three goals in nine league appearances for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side this season.

The 26-year-old was replaced by Mario Pasalic 11 minutes from time.

The Nigeria international has scored 13 goals in 31 league outings for Atalanta last season.

However, Atalanta went through a sticky patch last season that could have led to the end of the boss’ long tenure during the summer.

CEO Luca Percassi weighed in on that and more to Radio Serie A and he revealed that the board and the entire staff of Atalanta are behind the coach.

  Said Percassi, “We like to trust those who are with us and bear the fruits of their labor. We’ve had just three coaches in 14 years for the sake of continuity. Our first one was Stefano Colantuono, then we had the luck of having Edoardo Reja, and Gasperini is entering his eighth year at the helm. They are all really beautiful stories.”

Percassi was asked whether the current boss had ever been on the hot seat.

“No, because we always respect those who work hard. It’s obvious that results are decisive in football. We’re happy with what we have accomplished.”

Gasperini mentioned Saudi Arabia as a possible future destination.

“I’m not used to commenting on other people’s statements. I think everybody should be happy to be here. It’s an ideal environment with a fantastic fan base that recognizes the dimension of our reality. Anyway, I don’t think that’s the case. We’re in the midst of a captivating season. Playing in Europe is always a great experience.”