‘What a player’: John Terry compares Arsenal youngster with Lionel Messi

Chelsea legend John Terry has nothing but sweet words for Arsenal youngster Max Dowman, stating that his game reminds him of Barcelona legend Lionel Messi.

16-year-old Dowman scored his first Premier League goal on Saturday as Arsenal edged past Everton to go nine points clear of Manchester City in the title race.

Dowman produced a solo stunner, countering alone after Everton committed all 11 men forward for a late corner, beating Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall with a drop of the shoulder before finishing into an empty net.

Terry who was on the other side during his playing days shared his take on Dowman’s talent after the game, and the youngster would be proud.

Max Dowman celebrates scoring Arsenal’s second goal against Everton. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

“Max Dowman, what a player by the way,” he said in a video on TikTok. “16 years of age, almost 17. Absolutely incredible.

“I watched him play against Chelsea about a year ago and I’ve not seen anyone glide past people like this man does, other than Messi.

“That’s a big, big comparison, but this man is a proper talent and will play a big part in Arsenal’s future, and also England’s as well. Super, super talent. Big win as well for them today.”

Terry also had a say about Chelsea’s recent poor form as he slammed referee Paul Tierney after he was caught up in the Blues’ huddle ahead of their defeat by Newcastle.

“Disappointing for Chelsea as well, more importantly,” he went on. “After a tough week losing away to PSG, we face PSG again, which is gonna be a tough game as well with all to play for.

“We need to be pretty much on the front foot and take the game to PSG in the week. Disappointing to drop points in the league as well. We’ve got a tough couple of weeks ahead of us.

“Hopefully, we can get back to winning ways as soon as possible.

“Also, what the f*** is Paul Tierney doing in the huddle with the Chelsea players before the game?

“Surely the lads have just got to get rid of him and tell him to f*** off. Drives me mad, stuff like that. Referees just completely stand in the way of stuff.”