Chelsea legend John Terry was impressed by Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman following his man-of-the-match performance against Everton in the Premier League.
The Gunners extended their advantage over Manchester City at the top of the table to nine points after an impressive 2-0 victory over the Toffees at the Emirates Stadium.
The game seemed to be heading for a stalemate before a late turnaround for the Gunners. Dowman was the key catalyst off the bench. He delivered a fine cross into Piero Hincapie’s path.
The Ecuadorian went on to assist Viktor Gyokeres’ 89th-minute winner. Dowman bagged the club’s second goal in the dying seconds, running the full length of the pitch to score into an empty net.
Speaking after the game, Terry was undoubtedly impressed by Dowman.
The former Chelsea captain said that the 16-year-old was ‘absolutely incredible’ against the Toffees.
He added that he is a proper talent and has not seen anyone glide past people like him other does than the great Lionel Messi, he said on TikTok:
“Max Dowman, what a player! 16 years of age. Absolutely incredible. I watched him play against Chelsea about a year ago and I’ve not seen anyone glide past people like this man does other than Messi…
“That’s a big, big comparison, but this man is a proper talent and will play a big part in Arsenal’s future and England.”
Dowman contributed heavily to the dramatic late win over David Moyes’ side. With the victory, the Gunners are nine points ahead of the Cityzens at the top of the table, but the latter have a game in hand.
Arsenal also have a superior goal difference of +7, and that could be worth another point.
As things stand, the club need a maximum of 16 points in seven games to end their two-decade-long wait for the top-flight title.
The target required could be less if Pep Guardiola’s side drop more points over their next eight matches.
Arsenal have no time to ponder with a crucial second leg of the Champions League round of 16 coming up against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. The scores are level (1-1) after the first leg in Germany.
After that, the Gunners have the simple matter of a Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium next Sunday. The club have a huge week ahead before the international break.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com