Max Dowman makes Arsenal history with record-breaking League Cup double

Max Dowman became the second-youngest player to score for Arsenal in the League Cup after his brace helped the Gunners establish a 4-1 lead against Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

The 16-year-old made an immediate impact in the third round of the competition, opening the scoring in the seventh minute.

Dowman beat Ipswich defender Cedric Kipre with a skillful piece of play before advancing into the penalty area and calmly finishing past goalkeeper Christian Walton.

He struck again shortly after the restart, scoring Arsenal’s third goal in the 47th minute. Dowman received a precise through-ball inside the area before sending a low shot beyond Walton and into the net.

His two goals placed him in the club’s record books, according to Opta. At 16 years and 258 days, Dowman is now the second-youngest player to score for Arsenal in the history of the League Cup.

The three youngest players to score for a Premier League club in the competition have all done so for Arsenal. Cesc Fabregas remains the youngest, having scored against Wolves in 2003 at 16 years and 212 days.

Dowman is next on the list, while Jack Wilshere is third after scoring against Sheffield United in 2008 at 16 years and 266 days.

Dowman has also matched a landmark achieved by former Everton forward Wayne Rooney. He is only the second 16-year-old to score twice in a single match for a Premier League club in all competitions.

Rooney set the previous record in October 2002, when he scored two goals for Everton against Wrexham in the League Cup.

The teenager’s goals came as Arsenal took control of their third-round tie with Ipswich Town, with the Gunners holding a 4-1 advantage at Portman Road.