AliousChris Rigg has been a regular fixture for Sunderland in the Championship this season, with the 17-year-old making 30 league appearances so far in the 2024/25 campaign. Manager Regis Le Bris has placed significant trust in the young midfielder, making him a key player in the club’s push for Premier League promotion.
Despite his age, Rigg has been instrumental in Sunderland’s success, scoring four crucial goals that helped secure points against Middlesbrough, Leeds United, Luton Town, and Blackburn Rovers. His impressive performances have drawn attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Manchester United and Inter Milan.
However, given the demands of a full Championship season and his young age, there are growing concerns that Rigg may need a break in the coming weeks to keep him fresh for the crucial final stretch. As Sunderland fights for promotion, managing his workload will be vital to ensuring he remains at his best.
Calls for Rigg to Get a Rest
*Sunderland fan pundit Jordan Newcombe* weighed in on whether Rigg should be given a break, especially with Alan Browne available to step in.
“With Le Fee out for six to eight weeks, it’s a big loss for us,” Newcombe noted. “But we have positives, with Mundle and Watson returning, which means the left side is covered again. Their comebacks give Rigg a chance to rest—something he really needs.”
Newcombe emphasized that Rigg’s youth makes it difficult for him to sustain such an intense playing schedule. “Playing week in, week out at his age takes a toll, especially in an attacking midfield role where he has to push forward and track back constantly. He’ll tire much faster if he keeps playing every game.”
If Rigg is rested, it could create opportunities for Browne, Aleksic, and Samed to step up. “I’m glad we have Browne back. He’s a solid player, and with him in the squad, we can afford to rotate Rigg and keep him fresh. Despite recent injuries, we still have key players returning, which should be enough to handle teams like Sheffield Wednesday.”
Sunderland’s Injury Setback
Sunderland’s promotion push has suffered setbacks in recent days, starting with a 1-0 defeat to Hull City at the Stadium of Light. To make matters worse, both Enzo Le Fee and Daniel Ballard picked up injuries during that match and are set to miss significant time.
Le Fee’s absence for at least six weeks could complicate any plans to give Rigg a break, as Le Bris may feel he needs the youngster’s creativity in midfield. However, managing his workload will be crucial in ensuring Rigg remains in top form for the final weeks of the season—especially if Sunderland aims to build momentum heading into the play-offs.
It remains to be seen whether Le Bris will rotate Rigg in the coming weeks, but a well-timed rest could be exactly what the young midfielder needs to maintain his impact when it matters most.
Alious
