Max Dowman poised to beat Jude Bellingham record after latest international call-up

Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman could break Jude Bellingham's record as the youngest player to represent the England Under-21s. England U21 manager Lee Carsley named the 16-year-old in his 23-man squad for upcoming friendlies against Portugal and France. Bellingham set the current record in 2020 at 17 years, two months, and six days old, meaning Dowman would eclipse him by nearly four months if he plays.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the call-up, noting it offers Dowman playing time while he serves a domestic suspension following a red card against Fleetwood. Dowman joins Arsenal teammates Tommy Setford and Ethan Nwaneri in the squad, adding to a year in which he became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history.