Former England international Peter Crouch claimed Lookman could have played for England if he had shown more patience.
Crouch disclosed this after Lookman’s exceptional performance in the UEFA Europa League final.
Lookman, born in England to Nigerian parents, made his debut in May 2022 for Nigeria under Augustine Eguavoen’s guidance.
Lookman’s recent performance was sensational, including a hat-trick in the 2023-24 UEFA Europa League final, securing a 3-0 victory for Atalanta.
His performance has garnered significant praise from Peter Crouch and former Chelsea forward Joe Cole.
“This is why you play football. Lookman, who’s been a footballing nomad, has finally found a home and scored a hat-trick in a European cup final,” Crouch told TNT Sport.
“It’s an amazing story, and those fans will never forget the name Ademola Lookman.”
Crouch went on to speculate about Lookman’s international career choices, stating, “If Ademola Lookman had been patient, he would have played for England instead of Nigeria.
“He could have easily played for England like his U20 teammates if he was patient.”
Lookman is set to play for the Super Eagles in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic, as listed in Finidi George’s squad.