Ethan Nwaneri, 17, scores twice for Arsenal in 5-1 rout of Bolton and Liverpool beats West Ham 5-1
LONDON (AP) — Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri scored twice in a 5-1 win over third-division Bolton in the English League Cup on Wednesday.
The 17-year-old Nwaneri made a statement in his first senior start, while new signing Raheem Sterling also scored his first goal since joining from Chelsea.
On a night when some of Arsenal's next generation showcased their talent, goalkeeper Jack Porter became the youngest player to start for the London club aged 16 years, 72 days. Porter broke the record of club icon, Cesc Fabregas, who was 16 years, 177 days when he made his first start.
But Nwaneri holds the record as the youngest player to appear for Arsenal's first team, having come on as a substitute aged 15 years, 181 days in September 2022.
He registered his first senior goal in the 37th minute at the Emirates Stadium after Declan Rice had given Arsenal the lead in the 16th.
Nwaneri struck his second four minutes into the second half.
Aaron Collins pulled a goal back for Bolton in the 53rd, but Sterling struck in the 64th and Kai Havertz completed the rout in the 77th.
Liverpool rout
Liverpool got its defense of the League Cup off to a flying start with a 5-1 rout of West Ham.
But Arne Slot’s team had to come from behind after Jarell Quansah’s own goal in the 21st at Anfield. It didn’t take long, though. Diogo Jota scored four minutes later. He added his second four minutes after the break.
Mohamed Salah made it 3-1 in the 74th and West Ham’s task was made even more difficult when Edson Alvarez was sent off two minutes later.
Cody Gakpo sealed an emphatic win with goals in the 90th and then the third minute of stoppage time.
Fourth-round draw
Manchester City was drawn away to Tottenham in the pick of the fourth-round ties, while Liverpool also faces Premier League opposition with a trip to Brighton.
Arsenal travels to second-division Preston and Manchester United is at home against Leicester.
Newcastle will host Chelsea if it overcomes AFC Wimbledon.
Aston Villa vs. Crystal Palace is another all-top flight match.
Brentford hosts Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton is at home against Stoke.
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