Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta was full of praise for teenage sensation Max Dowman after the 15-year-old delivered a standout display in a pre-season win over Newcastle. Dowman won a penalty and impressed with his pace and confidence, leaving fans and coaches stunned. Arteta labelled the youngster’s impact as 'special' after a strong outing at the Singapore National Stadium.

Dowman won penalty, dazzled in pre-season against NewcastleArteta praises “special” performance by 15-year-old talentYoungster quickly becoming one to watch at ArsenalFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Dowman was introduced in the second half and quickly made his presence felt against Newcastle in Singapore as the 15-year-old drew a foul from Joelinton to win a penalty, showing maturity and fearlessness well beyond his years. He also came close to scoring after a dazzling solo run that nearly ended in a spectacular goal, and Gunners boss Arteta has heavily praised the teenager.

AdvertisementAFPWHAT ARTETA SAID

Speaking to the media, Arteta said: "Yeah, it is special. Obviously, what he's done today against this team in the time that he had on the pitch is something certainly not common to witness for a 15-year-old. We are extremely happy to have him.

"I think again the environment that he's around in, his family, the people at the club and around the academy as well, super helpful because they put him into this position so early in his journey, having a real chance and a real presence when he plays for the first time."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Dowman is quickly emerging as one of Arsenal’s most exciting Hale End prospects. His inclusion was a rare exception in Arteta’s typically senior-focused pre-season squad, but one that has paid off. Arsenal fans are already buzzing about what the future could hold for the fearless 15-year-old.

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR DOWMAN?

Arsenal are up against their North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, next at Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong, and it is possible that Dowman could be afforded his first senior start for the Gunners. In the main part of the season, however, it is unlikely that we will see a lot of the 15-year-old in the first team.