AFCON 2025
Arsenal youngster, Myles Lewis-Skelly made history by becoming England’s youngest debut goal scorer, netting in a World Cup qualifier against Albania at just 18 years and 176 days.
His record-breaking strike has reignited discussions about the impact of young talents in the Three Lions’ setup.
Over the years, England has witnessed several prodigious goal scorers announce themselves on the international stage at a tender age.
Here, we take a look at the top five youngest players to score for England and their impact on the national team.
1. Wayne Rooney
At 17 years and 317 days old, Rooney scored his first international goal against Macedonia on September 6, 2003, becoming England’s youngest ever goal scorer.
2. Michael Owen
Owen found the net at 18 years and 164 days during a friendly against Morocco on May 27, 1998.
3. Myles Lewis-Skelly
On March 21, 2025, Lewis-Skelly scored on his debut at 18 years and 176 days in a World Cup qualifier against Albania, making him the youngest player to score on his senior debut for England.
4. Marcus Rashford
Rashford scored at 18 years and 209 days in a friendly against Australia on May 27, 2016.
5. Tommy Lawton
Lawton scored at 19 years and 16 days during a match against Wales on October 22, 1938.
