Ademola Lookman scored twice as Atalanta demolished Empoli 5-0, responding emphatically to recent criticism from coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Following a midweek penalty controversy, Lookman returned to the starting lineup and played a key role in the win.

Davide Zappacosta opened the scoring with a deflected cross, before Lookman assisted Mateo Retegui for Atalanta’s second.

The Nigerian forward then showcased brilliant skill to score before halftime and added a second with a composed finish after the break.

Zappacosta sealed the rout with a late goal.

Despite the dominant performance, tensions lingered as Lookman noticeably avoided shaking hands with Gasperini after being substituted.

The victory moves Atalanta within two points of second-placed Napoli, keeping them in the title race.

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has clarified that he didn’t intend to offend his player Ademola Lookman.

Gasperini infuriated Lookman after criticising the Nigerian international for taking a penalty in Tuesday night’s home loss to Club Brugge.

The Italian declared that the striker was “one of the worst penalty kick takers” he had ever seen.

But, Lookman responded by labelling his manager’s comment disrespectful.

However, Gasperini clarified his position, saying: “He had an extraordinary impact. My words were never meant to be offensive.”

Gasperini spoke at a press conference on Saturday via TMW.

“Yesterday, in Udinese-Lecce, we saw what could have turned into a global spectacle, but fortunately, the players let it go,” he said.

“I would have liked to see a great player like him [Lookman] make a gesture toward [Charles] De Ketelaere, saying, ‘Come on, take the ball, put it in.

“He could become a penalty taker, adding another scoring ability. But I almost feel like there’s a narrative being pushed that Atalanta are in chaos when the reality is quite different.

“I always speak in front of the whole team, this has never even been an issue within the club.

“The player felt offended, but I never intended to offend anyone. In the end, I think it turned out well because there was no unnecessary drama.

“I also appreciated what happened in the Udinese game, with both the players and the coach. Lookman came on against Brugge in an extraordinary way, and his gesture, even if generous, doesn’t change my opinion,” Gasperini stated.

Former Liverpool man, Didi Hamann has told Arsenal they cannot win titles without a top striker.

Hamann believes that Arsenal’s quest for titles would remain a mirage if they fail to bring in a top striker.

He named Ollie Watkins as another good option the Gunners could have gone for in the winter transfer window.

“I said that before, I don’t see them winning the Premier League or the Champions League unless they sign a centre-forward like Ollie Watkins,” he told Prime Casino.

I don’t know how serious that was, but [Jhon] Duran went to Saudi, so I think it was always unlikely they’re gonna let Watkins go, still being in the Champions League.

“I think the team is well equipped, but the lack of a centre forward is obviously what I think harms their chances,” he added.

Mikel Arteta’s side have also been linked with Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, Liam Delap and Youssef En-Nesyri.

They are in dire need of a front man to solve their goal-scoring issues.

The Gunners are without a striker for the rest of the season following injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.