Mikel Arteta hailed Arsenal’s emphatic victory over Everton as “one of the best moments” the club has experienced under his reign at the Emirates. The Spaniard, who nearly tore his trousers during the celebrations, also paid tribute to 16-year-old attacker Max Doman, who came off the bench to score the first goal and then the second. Arteta insists Dauman is one of the most impressive youngsters he has ever seen.
Dowman became the youngest scorer in Premier League history when he scored in the 97th minute into an empty goal after Jordan Pickford was stuck in an Everton corner. Arteta explained his decision to bring on the teenage wonder as he followed the game, praising the teenager’s attitude: “I probably had a gut feeling in my head. I was watching him train the last few days and I just had a gut feeling that now was the time for him.”
“He doesn’t seem fazed by the situation or the opponent’s situation. He plays very naturally, makes decisions to make things happen, and what he brought was unbelievable.”
“I told him, ‘Go and do what you have to do and win the game,’ and I said the same thing to Victor (Gyoqueres) and (Gabrieu) Martinelli. He said this is the moment in the season when something special has to happen. He knows he’s capable of it, so I have to give him a chance, and he’ll make it happen.”
Arteta is a big fan of Dauman. He added: “It was unbelievable. So loud, so energetic. What a moment. I think his personality, his personality and, like I said, the fact that he doesn’t seem fazed by the pressure or his teammates or the opponents. I’ve seen a lot of talented players, but very few at 16 years old can handle that level of demand.”
Asked if this was a win that showed Arsenal were willing to get over the line, Arteta added: “I think the last few months have been incredible. It’s been sensational.”
“We play every competition and every game like it’s our last, but some days are good, some days are special and some days are not so good.
“But the relentless desire to win that I feel for our team is just one of the best things this team has, in my opinion.”
