Dowman was brought into the Under-18s fold in September, aged just 13 at the time, earlier this season and has looked a superstar already - particularly after one display.
Dowman is only 14 but already looks a future star
Dowman is only 14 but already looks a future starCredit: Getty
The 14-year-old was used as a midfielder against Fulham Under-18s in a 5-2 win - with Dowman assisting four of the goals.
Under the tutelage of former Arsenal midfielder Wilshere, who is in charge of the club's academy, the 32-year-old is keen to see the prodigal starlet used in first-team training.
"There’s always a concern when fielding such a young player in these matches, but if you’re good enough you’re old enough," Wilshere told club media.
"He can be more consistent but he’s only 14 and hasn’t even started his GCSEs yet.
"We need to find a balance of letting him play and enjoy the game because of his age but also trying to get as much work into him as we can.
"Hopefully, we can fast-track him and when he goes over to the first team he’ll be more ready."
Arsenal's academy is among the best in the world and the club already hold the record for the youngest player to feature in an English top-flight match.
Ethan Nwaneri claimed the record when he came on against Brentford in September 2022 aged 15 years and 181 days.
Dowman is keen to follow in his teenage teammate's footsteps and could beat that record if Mikel Arteta involves him at all this season.
0 Comments