UCL: Brendan Rodgers reveals what he told Lookman after Celtic's goalless draw against Atalanta

Scottish Premiership giants Celtic proved that they are a mentally strong side, earning a point on the road against Atalanta on Wednesday evening, after the demolition they suffered at the hands of  Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League a few weeks ago. 

Mario Pašalić had most of the opportunities to give the Italian Serie A side the lead but they were unable to get their noses in front after smart saves from Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.

In their second home match of this season's Champions League campaign, Atalanta were held to a goalless draw, this time against Celtic following a similar result against Arsenal, a point that will be widely celebrated in Glasgow.

One of the storylines before the contest centered on Ademola Lookman facing his former coach Brendan Rodgers, who tried to sign the forward in his first spell at Celtic Park but was priced out of a move. 

The Nigeria international has been a shadow of himself since his return from Super Eagles duty and was replaced in the 69th minute. 

Rodgers was spotted hugging the Ballon d'Or nominee after the final whistle at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo.

When asked what he said to Lookman, the Northern Irishman was quoted as saying by Tutto Atalanta: ”I joked with him and said: "I know you're a candidate for the Ballon d'Or, but forget about the Ballon d'Or tonight!". 

While the Celtic boss had only positive things to say about Lookman, he was thrilled that the Atalanta number 11 did not get on the scoresheet.

"Lookman is an extraordinary guy, I had the pleasure of coaching him at Leicester City. He was a fantastic player for me, he scored important goals. 

"I would have liked to have him back at my club, but in the end he went to Atalanta, where he became an icon. 

"It's fantastic to see him play at this level. He's an exceptional guy, very professional and a great athlete. And I'm happy he didn't score tonight!".

Celtic have four points on the board after three matches in the Champions League, while Atalanta have five points and are yet to concede a goal. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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