Arsenal Dowman cites Saka inspiration after signing pre-contract agreement

Max Dowman has signed a pre-contract agreement with Arsenal, and he cited Bukayo Saka as an inspiration.

Dowman, who turned 16 last month, became the second-youngest player in Premier League history when he came for the Gunners against Leeds United in August.

The winger won a penalty during his cameo, with Viktor Gyokeres putting it away.

Dowman was named in an Arsenal starting XI for the first time in October, in an EFL Cup clash with Brighton, becoming the club's youngest ever starter in the process, at the age of 15 years and 302 days.

He has now penned a pre-contract agreement, which will see him sign professional terms when he turns 17 later this year.

"This means everything to me and my family," Dowman told the club's official website.

"We all support Arsenal and I really feel like I belong here. I'd like to thank all my coaches, teammates and, most importantly, my family and friends, who have gotten me to where I am today."

Dowman has been inspired by other youngsters coming through the ranks under Mikel Arteta, including Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, while England star Saka is also a role model.

He added: "I've been at the club my whole life, so this really means a lot.

"There's such a clear pathway here, players who have come through our academy, like Bukayo, Myles and Ethan, who all really inspire me.

"It's amazing to have role models so close that have experienced the same thing that I have. I'm so excited to continue to work hard with my development."