‘Hasn’t started GCSEs yet!’ - Arsenal hoping to ‘fast-track’ 14-year-old prodigy Max Dowman into first-team squad

The talented teenager is held in high regard with the Gunners, with his potential clear for all to see. Dowman is already being asked to play at a higher level than many players of his age, with a place found for him in Arsenal’s U18 ranks.

Dowman caught the eye for Arsenal as their U18s enjoyed a 5-2 victory over London rivals Fulham – with four assists recorded on the day – and academy coach Jack Wilshere believes the hottest of prospects can race down a path towards senior football.

Ex-Arsenal and England star Wilshere has told the Gunners’ official website of Dowman: “There's always a concern when fielding such a young player in these matches, but if you're good enough you're old enough. 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 boast a rich history when it comes to nurturing talent through their youth ranks and into the first-team, with Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe currently flying a flag that has previously been raised by the likes of Tony Adams, Cesc Fabregas, Ashley Cole, Paul Merson and Liam Brady.