Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Max Dowman after the teenager scored twice to help Arsenal beat Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup, and the manager is likely to offer him more opportunities in the future.
Before the game, the 16-year-old had hardly been given a chance to see action this season, with the Gunners largely sticking with almost the same team since the campaign began.
Dowman takes his opportunity
Arsenal have been winning matches, while Bukayo Saka has been in sensational form, meaning there has been little need for the team to rely on Dowman during their matches.
However, the attacker was brought into the team for the Ipswich fixture, and Arsenal delivered a commanding performance. Dowman took advantage of his opportunity by scoring twice to help his side overcome one of the struggling teams in the top flight this season.
The youngster is being eased into life at senior level, but each time he plays, it appears that he has the ability to contribute more. His performance against Ipswich will therefore provide further encouragement as he continues to develop with the first team.
Dowman’s two goals also ensured that his contribution could not be overlooked, with the teenager showing that he can make a significant impact when called upon. His display gave Arteta another opportunity to assess his progress in a competitive fixture.
(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Arteta praises the teenager
Arteta was particularly impressed by Dowman’s character and his ability to perform naturally on a big stage. The manager also highlighted the ease with which the youngster can produce important actions during matches.
After the fixture, Arteta praised Dowman for his performance and his attitude towards playing at the highest level. He said via Standard Sports:
“Max, it’s inevitable to talk about him when he scores and creates the moments that he has tonight.
“It’s normal. He can deliver those actions effortlessly, I would say. That’s his biggest quality.
“He’s an unbelievable player because of the character he has and how much he loves to play at the biggest stage and handle the situation so naturally.”
The comments underline Arteta’s appreciation of Dowman’s ability and character. Following his impressive display against Ipswich, the teenager will hope to receive further opportunities as Arsenal’s campaign continues.