Max Dowman made a positive start to the international break with the England u19s in their friendly against the Republic of Ireland over the weekend, scoring the winner in a 1-0 victory.

Dowman had been named in the starting lineup for the game, but it took until the 70th minute for the crucial breakthrough, with the Arsenal youngster converting to give England the lead.

The 16-year-old was substituted 11 minutes later, and the young Lions managed to see out the victory. The u19s have further friendly games coming up against Norway and the USA this week, before concluding things with a game against Belgium next Monday.

Meanwhile, Graeme Bailey recently reported for TEAMtalk that more than a dozen clubs have made contact with Arsenal to register their interest in a potential January loan for Dowman.

The teenager won’t be eligible for a loan move until he turns 17 and turns professional, which will happen the day before the winter window opens, as Dowman’s birthday is on December 31st.

As a result, the Gunners didn’t have a decision to make over the summer, with Dowman’s only options either to remain with the Arsenal senior team or to play for the academy.

But things will be different in January, when a loan is a real possibility.

As for why Dowman is with the England u19s this break, England u21 boss Lee Carsley explained that they’re wary of calling youngsters up too early.