Wayne Rooney showers praises on Dowman after historic Arsenal goal
Wayne Rooney has praised teenage winger Max Dowman after the youngster became the youngest goalscorer in the history of the Premier League.
The 16-year-old found the net during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, a result that moved the Gunners nine points clear at the top of the table.
Dowman’s breakthrough moment has drawn comparisons with Rooney’s own early rise. The former England striker once held the Premier League’s youngest scorer record after scoring for Everton against Arsenal in 2002 at the age of 16.
Rooney highlights education challenge
Rooney believes the teenager now faces the challenge of balancing football with school commitments.
“He has got his GCSEs, and his education, I’m sure for him and his family, is important as well,” Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show.
“What an opportunity for him to be around the squad. He could be a Premier League winner when he’s still finishing school off.”
Rooney also suggested Dowman’s appearances could be limited during the final weeks of the season as he focuses on his exams.
“He’s got an aura and a belief about him and it was the same against Everton,” he said. “If it’s education first, I don’t think we’ll see much of him over the next few weeks.”
Rooney compares eras of young talent
The former striker reflected on his own experience after scoring his first Premier League goal at 16.
Rooney said he was earning £75 a week before turning professional and even borrowed money from his parents at the time. After the famous goal, he returned to playing football on the streets with friends.
He noted that young players now face a different environment due to the influence of social media.
“Now we’re in social media,” Rooney said. “People will be messaging, Instagram or Twitter, whatever he’s got. And you’ll be seeing it everywhere.”
Confidence impresses former striker
Rooney also praised Dowman’s composure and attacking approach on the pitch.
“He seems, from the games I’ve watched, to not let that pressure affect him because he gets the ball, he holds on to it, he commits defenders, he goes to take them on,” he said.
Rooney added that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and senior players will help keep the youngster grounded as his career develops.
“For a 16-year-old with that ability, you just hope he can go and fulfil that potential. Let him enjoy it and go and express himself,” Rooney said.