Max Dowman handed England senior squad verdict as Arsenal star eyes record

Arsenal's 16-year-old prodigy Max Dowman has received official word that a call-up to the senior England squad is not imminent, with the Under-21s identified as his logical next step. The talented midfielder, who became the Premier League's youngest-ever goalscorer last season, has impressed England's coaching staff since before the World Cup.

Thomas Tuchel has been monitoring Dowman's progress and expects him to feature with the U19s on Friday. With five senior England players set to return from suspension, U21s manager Lee Carsley may consider promoting some players, but he firmly believes that Dowman's development should be managed through the U21s rather than rushing him to the senior team.

Carsley emphasized the importance of allowing players to progress at their own pace, highlighting that Dowman's talent and development can lead to a long and successful international career. The England U21 manager has compared Dowman's situation to that of Wayne Rooney, who made his senior debut at just 17 years old, acknowledging that such a rapid rise is an exceptional case rather than the norm.