Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has advised Max Dowman to remain grounded after the teenager made history with a goal for Arsenal in their victory 2-0 over Everton.

Dowman etched his name into the record books after becoming the youngest goalscorer in the Premier League, netting in the final minutes at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. 

The teenager’s strike capped an impressive move from defence to attack and helped secure another important victory for the Premier League leaders.

Speaking on Supersport Monday Night Football, as monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Ikpeba praised the youngster’s talent but warned him against being overwhelmed by early success. 

"The boy is a young lad. I wish he won't get carried away quickly," Ikpeba said. "He still has his career ahead of him. He still has 10 or 15 years to prove that he can play football at the highest level."

Ikpeba added that early promise does not always translate into a sustained career at the top level, noting that many talented teenagers struggle to fulfil their potential if they fail to remain disciplined and patient. 

"First goal as a young lad and he's brilliant. He came in as a young lad, he scored that brilliant goal from defense to attack," he added. 

"It is good for his confidence but there are challenges ahead. That's why we (the past footballers) would always say, it is not by going great at 15 or 16."

According to him, the competition for places at elite clubs remains intense and young players must continue to prove themselves consistently.

"We see a lot in football. Young lads that started at the age of 15 or 16, they showed a lot of potential but they don't get up to that potential at the highest level."

"He is in a big club, will he have the opportunity to play weekly, will he be patient?

"The competition is still ahead of you. You have to compete to play at the highest level. So, it is great for him. I hope we will not come back in the next five or ten years and see this guy lad struggle."

The former African Footballer of the Year stressed that Dowman must stay focused and patient as he continues his development.

"At this level, these young players have to be patient and I think with Arteta, who will want to give opportunity to these young lads, it is great."

"But the future ahead is still so difficult. It's great and I think he will enjoy this day for a very long time to come but the career ahead of him is just starting," he said. 

Dowman is currently enjoying a breakthrough campaign across Arsenal’s youth ranks.

The highly rated prospect has scored two goals in three appearances in Premier League 2, while also impressing in the UEFA Youth League with four goals in two matches this season.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: asmonaco.com