Nigeria releases Lookman despite squad travel to Russia

Lookman released by Nigeria for friendly in Russia; will return to Atlético early ahead of La Liga clash with Alavés on October 10.

Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone will welcome back international players this week as the club prepares for its return to league action on Saturday, October 10 against Deportivo Alavés. Ademola Lookman has been released by Nigeria for a friendly match against Russia on Tuesday, allowing the winger to rejoin Atlético sooner than expected. Nigeria cited the refusal of some clubs to release players and injuries to key figures as reasons for squad weakness ahead of the friendly.