Arsenal fans shocked as 13-year-old plays for Wilshere's Under-18s

Dowman is the latest young prodigy already making a name for himself at such a young age.

Born in December 2009, the midfielder has progressed through the academy ranks, and turns out regularly for the Under 15 side.

He recently made his bow against players five years older than him, in Arsenal's 4-0 win over Southampton.

Chidozie Obi-Martin netted a hat-trick and Louis Zecevic-John also scored, but fans were stunned to see Dowman handed a chance.

One said: "Best in the country for giving youth a chance. But even then, that's crazy young."

read more on arsenal

Ramsdale posts pointed Instagram pictures after dad calls Carragher comments a 'disgrace'

Arsenal 'optimistic' on Declan Rice injury and hope he'll be available for mammoth clash

Another added: "This is absurd."

A third wrote: "This kid has already eclipsed Ethan Nwaneri already?! He must be a lad talent!"

With a fourth commenting: "I was playing runescape and my PSP at that age. What am I doing with my life."

Arsenal are a club known for giving youth a chance, with Ethan Nwaneri becoming the youngest player in Premier League history aged 15 years and 181 days old in September last year.

Most read in Football

Barnes out until 2024, Sancho exiled, Chelsea legend leaves club, Carabao Cup build-up

Man United fans send message to Glazers with banner flown over their NFL stadium

Sancho banned from all first-team facilities at Man United as Ten Hag stand-off goes on

Bent: Chelsea woes this season aren't Boehly's fault and they may need to sack Pochettino

"We take a holistic view of the academy, pushing our players to excel," Wilshere told Arsenal's official website.

"Debut opportunities aren't handed out lightly, and Max has demonstrated over the past few months that he deserves this chance. There are others on the verge of stepping up as well.

"He handled the moment admirably, sending an important message to the team that when we introduce players, they possess the quality to contribute effectively."