A FORMER Harlow schoolboy made history for Arsenal last week by becoming the youngest player to ever start for the first team. 

Porter made his debut in a 5-1 victory over League One’s Bolton in the Carabao Cup after Arsenal turned to the teen following David Raya suffering a thigh injury last week during a match against Manchester City. 

Porter started his football career for Sumners FC.

His former coach, Andy Pearce is interviewed here.

Cesc Fabregas, at 16 years, 177 days, had held the record for over 20 years when he made his first start in 2003.

Porter only turned 16 in July, and the Premier League club was down to its last option with summer loan Neto cup-tied — meaning he could not play in the match after having played in the tournament with another squad — and 18-year-old Tommy Setford also dealing with an ailment. 

Porter won’t be able to sign a professional contract until he turns 17 next year.