England U17s may have been unable to progress beyond the group stages of the European Championship but Max Dowman emerged from the tournament with his reputation enhanced even further.
In England’s first two group games – a 1-1 draw with Italy and a 4-2 defeat to Belgium – Dowman showed some glimpses of his undoubted ability but was unable to find the net.
That all changed in the 4-2 victory against Czechia yesterday, with Dowman opening the scoring early on with a neat finish following some excellent skill.
The 15-year-old proceeded to provide the assist for Alejandro Rodriguez to make it 2-0 and was then involved in the build-up as Harry Howell made it 3-0.
Dowman, who had been booked and was limping, was substituted in the 61st minute and that proved to be his final action at the tournament as England were eliminated.
The next game that Dowman plays could well be for the Arsenal first-team in pre-season and he will now have time to rest following a long and eventful campaign.
Goalkeeper Jack Porter, meanwhile, started all three of England’s matches at the U17 Euros and the experience that he gained is set to be hugely beneficial for his overall development.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird