Teen star Dowman ready to make impact for Arsenal says Arteta
Mikel Arteta believes Max Dowman is prepared to feature on a consistent basis for Arsenal following the remarkable performance by the young prodigy who is vying for a spot in Tuesdays Champions League encounter against Bayer Leverkusen.
Dowman shone brightly as Arsenal secured a 2-0 triumph over Everton on Saturday propelling them nine points ahead at the summit of the Premier League.
At only 16 years and 73 days old Dowman substituted into the match to clinch a crucial win for the Gunners by delivering the assist for Viktor Gyokeres opening goal and then scoring one himself during added time.
The young midfielders strike established him as the youngest ever goalscorer in Premier League records drawing praise from Arteta who must now ponder starting him in the second leg of the last-16 tie versus Leverkusen.
Addressing queries on whether Dowman is set for regular appearances Arteta remarked to journalists on Monday Yeah regularly. It hinges on your definition of regularly.
Depending on the fixture and his response. His response has been exceptionally favourable and aligns with our requirements for the match.
To achieve what he managed in that critical instant is scarcely witnessed or nearly unattainable.
He accomplished it yet in football past achievements fade quickly as focus shifts to the upcoming challenge.
Arsenals defender Riccardo Calafiori noted that Dowman who remains engaged in school examinations has swiftly become a cherished member of the team.
The initial glimpse of him playing sparks intrigue. He is incredibly youthful yet displays remarkable composure on the field Calafiori observed.
He possesses vast potential for growth but is evidently gifted as demonstrated. Nevertheless we ought to allow him space and avoid excessive hype since he already holds all the attributes.
Certainly we offer guidance yet currently he excels independently of our input.
Arsenal held Bayer Leverkusen to a 1-1 draw in the initial leg in Germany courtesy of a late penalty from Kai Havertz.
They enter as strong contenders to overcome the Bundesliga outfit at home in north London though Arteta cautioned against overconfidence.
We understand our tasks and before our supporters with full commitment we intend to deliver he stated.
Arteta further disclosed that Martin Odegaard might recover in time to captain Arsenal in Sundays League Cup final versus Manchester City at Wembley.
Odegaard has missed action since the 4-1 victory over Tottenham on February 22 due to a knee problem.
The Norwegian playmaker is striving to participate in Arsenals bid for their first significant honour since the 2020 FA Cup.
We are urging him along. He is eager to participate but we shall assess his condition in the coming days during team sessions Arteta commented.
We recognise the imminent fixture and additional squad members will enhance our prospects.