Simeone Rules Lookman Out Of Crucial Athletic Bilbao Clash

Atletico Madrid supporters have been dealt a blow with the news that star winger Ademola Lookman will play no part in Saturday’s home fixture against Athletic Bilbao.

The Nigerian international, who has been a revelation for Los Colchoneros this season, is still struggling with an adductor injury sustained during the heartbreak of the Copa del Rey final defeat to Real Sociedad last weekend.

Lookman’s absence was keenly felt during Tuesday’s disappointing loss to Elche, and while there were initial hopes that he might pass a late fitness test for the Bilbao game, manager Diego Simeone confirmed the news during his Friday press conference.

“Ademola Lookman is not ready for tomorrow yet; it’s a good thing we took him off in the Copa final to prevent something worse.”

The 28-year-old’s fitness is now a matter of national and continental concern. Atletico are desperate to have their talisman back for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final against Arsenal next week.

Simeone will be sweating on the medical team’s reports, knowing that Lookman’s explosive pace and clinical finishing could be the deciding factor in their quest for European glory.