John Terry has revealed the one aspect of Max Dowman’s game that reminds him of Barcelona legend Lionel Messi.
The highly-rated 16-year-old scored his first Premier League goal on Saturday as the Gunners edged past Everton to go nine points clear of Manchester City in the title race.
He produced a solo stunner, countering alone after Everton committed all 11 men forward for a late corner, beating Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall with a drop of the shoulder before finishing into an empty net.
As pundits around the world lauded the youngster, Terry, who has never made much attempt to hide his general contempt for Arsenal, could not help but be reminded of one of the game’s all-time greats.
“Max Dowman, what a player by the way,” he said in a video on TikTok. “16 years of age, almost 17. Absolutely incredible.
“I watched him play against Chelsea about a year ago and I’ve not seen anyone glide past people like this man does, other than Messi.
“That’s a big, big comparison, but this man is a proper talent and will play a big part in Arsenal’s future, and also England’s as well. Super, super talent. Big win as well for them today.”
He continued, bemoaning Chelsea’s recent poor form and slamming referee Paul Tierney after he was caught up in the Blues’ huddle ahead of their defeat by Newcastle.
“Disappointing for Chelsea as well, more importantly,” he went on. “After a tough week losing away to PSG, we face PSG again, which is gonna be a tough game as well with all to play for.
“We need to be pretty much on the front foot and take the game to PSG in the week. Disappointing to drop points in the league as well. We’ve got a tough couple of weeks ahead of us.
“Hopefully, we can get back to winning ways as soon as possible.
“Also, what the f*** is Paul Tierney doing in the huddle with the Chelsea players before the game?
“Surely the lads have just got to get rid of him and tell him to f*** off. Drives me mad, stuff like that. Referees just completely stand in the way of stuff.”
Speaking after Chelsea’s defeat by Newcastle, head coach Liam Rosenior said he intended to complain to PGMOL about Tierney’s refusal to move away from the huddle.