Theo Walcott claims that Max Dowman’s positioning just before Arsenal’s winning goal was really interesting to see and allowed Kai Havertz the space to score.
The Gunners can count themselves lucky to have come away from the José Alvalade Stadium with a 1-0 advantage following a lacklustre performance in Lisbon.
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Havertz’s stoppage-time goal proved to be the key moment in the Champions League tie; however, overall, it was a rather sluggish performance from Mikel Arteta’s team.
But one thing the manager cannot be questioned on is the use of his substitutes, who combined for the goal, and despite not being directly involved, Dowman’s movement has been praised.
Theo Walcott hails Max Dowman’s positioning vs Sporting CP
Theo Walcott believes that Max Dowman’s positioning against Sporting CP was very intelligent and was key to helping Kai Havertz score.
Walcott told Prime Video Sports: “What’s really fascinating about this goal as well, Max Dowman keeps his width, which really isolates the full-backs, which creates the space for Havertz to run into with Gyokeres occupying two centre-halves as well.
“But you have to be quick with the finish as well, but it’s a really calm finish in a really difficult situation.”
Ahead of the match, there were plenty of shouts for the 16-year-old to start, but instead Noni Madueke played out on the right.
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But despite only playing 18 minutes, Dowman came on and outshone Madueke, who really struggled against Sporting.
Right now, everything the teenager seems to do is just so impressive, and it will be hard for Arteta to keep overlooking him, especially with his other attackers underperforming.
The 16-year-old keeps showing up his more experienced teammates and managed to play an important role in ensuring Arsenal will return to the Emirates Stadium with a one-goal lead.
It will be interesting to see whether Bukayo Saka returns from injury against Bournemouth and if Dowman could get a start versus the Cherries.
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