Arteta hails Dowman’s ‘special’ history-making performance for Arsenal

It was Dowman, still two months and two days shy of his 16th birthday, who stole the show and was afforded a standing ovation as he departed the pitch.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (right) embraced Max Dowman. Pic: John Walton/PA

Mikel Arteta lauded Max Dowman’s “special” performance as the 15-year-old rewrote history by becoming Arsenal’s youngest-ever starter in his side’s Carabao Cup victory against Brighton.

Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka – who replaced Dowman with 20 minutes remaining – struck in the second half as Arsenal secured a 2-0 win at the Emirates to book their place in the fifth round and a home tie against Crystal Palace.