Arteta praises exceptional Dowman following landmark debut for 15 year old at Arsenal

Mikel Arteta praised Max Dowmans outstanding display after the 15 year old talent became the youngest player to start for Arsenal in Wednesdays 2 0 victory against Brighton in the League Cup fourth round.

Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka netted in the second half at the Emirates Stadium while Premier League frontrunners Arsenal secured a quarter final clash at home against Crystal Palace.

Yet Dowman who is still two months from turning 16 truly shone with an impressive performance that peaked when he received a standing ovation upon his substitution in the second half.

Arsenals manager Arteta was thrilled by Dowmans calm showing which defied his young age despite his modest reaction to the selection news suiting a schoolboy.

A small smile is all you see from him Arteta commented when questioned about Dowmans response to learning he would start.

For him it all comes naturally everything feels fine. That is his playing style and the key lies in not overcomplicating things.

He simply excels at football by playing with bravery and resolve and once more he displayed remarkable technique and the ability to outpace opponents at Premier League level at just 15. It is truly remarkable.

The promising youngster had earlier featured as a substitute in league matches versus Leeds and Liverpool plus the previous League Cup stage at Port Vale.

After experiencing a full start Arteta anticipates Dowman will seek more consistent minutes.

Certainly if you asked him. We must handle that carefully and beyond that many new aspects are entering his world he added.

We need to ensure he progresses properly and can handle the pace because events are unfolding rapidly so everyone involved should stay mindful.

Let us motivate him to continue this path while safeguarding him too.