Wayne Rooney makes Max Dowman prediction and urges Arsenal to ‘keep him away from public’

Wayne Rooney believes education may take precedence over football for Max Dowman despite making Premier League history for Arsenal.

The teenage starlet became the youngest ever goalscorer in the top flight on Saturday when he netted in their 2-0 win over Everton.

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At the age of 16 years and 73 days, Dowman broke the long-standing record that was claimed by James Vaughan at Everton in 2005.

He has now made seven senior appearances for Arsenal, one of which came in the Champions League league phase earlier in the season.

Dowman has even been tipped for a wildcard selection in England’s World Cup squad this summer.

However, Rooney, who famously burst onto the scene at 16-years-old for Everton, has hinted that his studies could get in the way.

Arsenal are nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table with seven matches to play, and the title race could go to the wire.

“He has got his GCSEs, and his education, I’m sure for him and his family, is important as well,” Rooney said on his BBC 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.

“He’s got an aura and a belief about him and it was the same against Everton.

“If it’s education first, I don’t think we’ll see much of him over the next few weeks.”

Rooney added: “He won’t be in as much as he’d probably like, but then you’ve got many years ahead of you.”

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Away from the cameras

Host Kelly Somers also mentioned how she hasn’t seen Dowman conduct any interviews during his impressive rise at Arsenal.

She asked Rooney if they are taking the right approach in this aspect, and the Premier League legend have them a key piece of advice.

“He’ll probably do some internal ones with Arsenal, just to get him used to it,” the Manchester United icon said.

He added: “I think nowadays, the younger lads have got social media, they’re on it all the time anyway.

“So, I’m sure he’ll probably be okay doing interviews. But, I think it’s best just to keep him away from the public for this period.”

What next for Dowman?

Dowman could have had plenty more minutes to his name this season if it weren’t for an ankle injury that sidelined him for weeks.

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But head coach Mikel Arteta could call upon his help on Tuesday night when they face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.

The aggregate score in their last 16 tie is currently 1-1, and the second leg will come live on talkSPORT as the Gunners eye the quarter-finals.

Dowman could then win his first piece of silverware in Arsenal colours on Sunday afternoon in the Carabao Cup final.

They take on Premier League title rivals Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, and this match will also be live on talkSPORT.