Jermain Defoe is impressed with the development of Max Dowman, as the 16-year-old continues to impress and show that he is one of the best young talents to emerge from English football.The attacker has continued to earn game time in the Gunners’ senior team and has performed well each time he steps onto the pitch, showing that he has the ability to compete at the highest level.Dowman has impressed enough to be tipped as a potential long-term successor to Bukayo Saka on Arsenal’s right wing, as he continues to develop well within the team. His progress has generated considerable attention.He is being considered one of the most talented youngsters the country has produced, and the attacker is expected to develop into a top player at the Emirates. However, Defoe does not believe he is the most talented 16-year-old England has ever had.Defoe compares Dowman with ColeDefoe believes that honour still belongs to Joe Cole, his former teammate, and he has explained why he thinks there has never been a 15-year-old like Cole. His comments provide context for the high regard in which he holds his former teammate.Defoe highlighted Cole’s ability with the ball and suggested that his qualities stood out even among other highly rated young players. He also mentioned Mikey Moore and Dowman when discussing talented youngsters.Defoe said via Metro Sport:‘Even now, with all the kids in the current academies, Mikey Moore comes close, then obviously you’ve got Max Dowman, but as a young 14 15 year old, I’ve never seen anything like Joe Cole. He was quicker with the ball than without. He was just amazing.’(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)Dowman continues to impressDowman’s continued involvement with Arsenal’s senior team has given him opportunities to demonstrate his ability at a young age. His performances have contributed to the growing attention surrounding his development.While Defoe believes Cole remains a standout example from his experience, he has also acknowledged the quality of the current generation by mentioning Dowman and Moore.For Dowman, the focus will remain on continuing his development and taking advantage of the opportunities he receives with Arsenal. His progress has already generated significant interest, and he will look to maintain his performances as he gains more senior experience._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsJermain Defoe explains why his ex-teammate is better than Dowman at 1522 September 2026, 16:00Xhaka makes confession over his time at Arsenal which could mean trouble22 September 2026, 15:00Paul Merson said Arteta made one selection mistake against Brighton22 September 2026, 14:00The post Jermain Defoe explains why his ex-teammate is better than Dowman at 15 appeared first on Just Arsenal News.