Max Dowman has just matched a Wayne Rooney record that has stood for 24 years

Max Dowman scored after seven minutes at Portman Road.

Less than two minutes into the second half, he scored another to put Arsenal 3-0 up against Ipswich after Noni Madueke also got on the scoresheet.

Mikel Merino made it 4-0 before Arsenal took their foot off the pedal and allowed two goals, including one from Hale End graduate Chuba Akpom. But it’s the 16-year-old who’s the story of the night again.

His brace on the night puts his senior goal tally up to three, following his unforgettable Premier League goal against Everton in March.

According to OptaJoe, Dowman is just the second 16-year-old to score two goals in a game for a Premier League side in all competitions.

The first was none other than Wayne Rooney, who did it for Everton against Wrexham in the League Cup 24 years ago in October 2002.

Rooney didn’t turn out too badly did he? The former Manchester United striker went on to become one of the greatest players English football has ever produced.

Of course, it would be unfair to place that expectation on Dowman’s shoulders after that remarkable performance. But he’s certainly talented enough to reach that sort of level.

Mikel Arteta promised Dowman his minutes would come if he earned them. On his first opportunity of the season, he has done considerably more than earn them. Two goals, a stunning solo opener described by fans as ‘Messi-esque’, and a performance that will be talked about for some time.

He might still only be 16, but he’s got to be in Arteta’s thinking in the Premier League now. He’s ready.