Newcastle United goalkeeper Roman Dowell is rapidly emerging as one of the club’s academy players to watch.
The 16-year-old only made his competitive Under-21 debut against Boreham Wood on 8 September, having progressed through Newcastle’s academy after joining at Under-9 level.
He then kept his place for the EFL Trophy trip to York City and produced several important saves as Newcastle came from behind to win 3-1.
Robbie Stockdale later praised Dowell’s performance, explaining that his goalkeeper helped keep Newcastle within touching distance during a difficult opening spell.
Read Newcastle’s full report and ratings from the York victory also highlighted Dowell’s contribution.
Roman Dowell makes England U18 impact
His progress has now extended to international football.
Dowell was one of four Newcastle youngsters handed their first England Under-18 call-ups for the UEFA Friendship Cup and started Thursday’s 3-2 victory over Colombia.
The FA’s official match report credited Dowell with several saves, including a crucial diving stop in the 88th minute that protected England’s lead.
Michael Mills scored and Kyran Thompson was also involved in the opener, while Sam Alabi appeared from the bench.
Read Newcastle covered the quartet’s international breakthrough earlier this week.
Dowell remains at the beginning of his development, but performing for Newcastle’s U21s and England U18s at just 16 represents significant progress.
