The Nigerian striker performances in recent games have been underwhelming, and his coach has come out to explain the reason for his struggles

Gennaro Gattuso has admitted that Victor Osimhen is struggling in front of goal, but that’s because he hasn’t regained his sharpness since returning from injury and Covid-19.

Osimhen joined Napoli from Ligue 1 side Lille for a record-breaking 81.3m euros last summer. However, the 22-year-old is yet to justify the club and African record fee Gli Azzurri paid for him.

The Nigerian international has scored just two goals in 13 appearances, while his campaign has been blighted with injury and coronavirus.

Osimhen picked up a shoulder injury last November, and that ruled him out for almost two months. He recovered in January but contracted coronavirus following a trip to Nigeria, which ruled him out for a further two weeks.

Although he made his return against Hellas Verona, Osimhen’s performances have been below par. Last night’s Coppa Italia clash against Atalanta was his first start since returning from coronavirus, but he struggled for the 79 minutes on the pitch and even missed a close-range chance.

But speaking after the encounter, Gattuso revealed Osimhen had lost some of his sharpness having missed three months of action.

“It’s not easy to be at the top of the game after being out for 94 days, the former AC Milan midfielder said as per Napoli website.

“He’s still lacking that sharpness, which is his main asset, but he’s gradually making progress. He’s capable of much more.”

It doesn’t get easier for Osimhen and Napoli, though, as their next game is against Juventus on Sunday.