Declan Rice drops comment about Max Dowman's character that Arsenal fans will love

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Declan Rice is astounded by Max Dowman's dedication to football and education. The Arsenal star's response upon seeing the teenager in his school uniform during a FaceTime chat underscored the commitment required to thrive in north London.

Dowman joined Marli Salmon on the pitch during Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Mansfield Town in the FA Cup . They became the first duo of 16-year-olds to start the same match for a top-flight club in any competition since 1967.

Salmon initially held the record as the youngest player to touch the ball in the fifth round of the FA Cup in the post-war era. This lasted a mere six seconds, however, after Dowman claimed this achievement.

Speaking to TNT Sports in September last year, midfield stalwart Rice confessed to being taken aback by the teenager's efforts and attitude at Arsenal . He said: "Obviously, Max is only 15, just going to be turning 16 in December.

"I've never seen a 15-year-old so comfortable around the first team, it's insane. They actually are just kids."

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Highlighting Dowman's educational commitments whilst playing for the Premier League leaders, Rice added: "I said to Max on the way back from pre-season tour, I couldn't get my head around it that he was going back to school.

"He FaceTimed the other day and he had his school uniform on, and I was like 'Mate, you've just played in the Premier League a week ago, and now you're walking back through the school gates. '

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"Even me as a 15-year-old, going into West Ham's first team dressing room, I would no way have been as confident as he was.

"I would've been quiet in the corner. Unless someone spoke to me, I wouldn't have spoken to them, whereas I feel like now, Max especially, he's just so confident in himself and his ability.

"The support network here is incredible and I've seen the academy - the way they work, it's insane."

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Rice's response to Dowman's demeanour reveals plenty about the teenager's prospects at Arsenal, considering his self-assured manner amongst the senior group. Manager Mikel Arteta was equally effusive in his praise for the youngster following his impressive showing in the FA Cup.

He said: "Quality. Because the ball is bouncing all over the place, and you have people on your back.

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