Former Nigerian international, Joseph Yobo has thrown his support behind Super Eagles winger, Ademola Lookman as a strong contender for the African Player of the Year award.

Lookman has had an exceptional year, standing out as a top candidate for the prestigious title.

His remarkable performances for both the Super Eagles and Atalanta have placed him in the spotlight.

He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s silver medal finish at the Africa Cup of Nations, and made history by leading Atalanta to victory in the Europa League.

Ademola Lookman (L) celebrates after scoring during the Africa Cup of Nations last 16 round match between Cameroon and Nigeria at Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium. (Photo by Haykel Hmima/Anadolu via Getty Images)

In the Europa League final, Lookman became the first player to score a hat-trick, guiding Atalanta to a memorable win over Bayer Leverkusen, who had been unbeaten in 51 games.

His contributions on the European stage have not gone unnoticed.

Speaking on Brila FM’s, “No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze”, Yobo, a 2013 AFCON winner, heaped praise on Lookman highlighting his growth and immense talent.

“Lookman is a threat,” Yobo said. “He has so much talent, and I’ve known this for five years. But now, he’s much more mature.”

“He was just unlucky not to win the AFCON. In the final, he wasn’t at his best, and Nigeria struggled. That shows just how important he is to the team.”

Yobo further emphasized Lookman’s ability to change games single-handedly, whether by scoring or creating chances.

“On his best day, he’ll win matches for you. If he doesn’t score he will assist and most importantly he’s improved his work rate. He tracks back, helps defensively, and understands his responsibilities on the pitch.

“He needs to keep doing that and what he’s achieved so far has already put him in the pole position for the African Player of the Year.”

Other contenders for the award include Egypt’s Mo Salah, Morocco’s Ibrahim Díaz, Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus, and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy.

However, Lookman remains the favourite to Win the award.