AliousChris Rigg has undoubtedly been one of Sunderland’s standout players this season. However, after an intense run of 32 matches, there are growing calls for the teenager to be given a well-earned rest.
Heading into the 2024/25 campaign, many anticipated that Rigg would take on a more prominent first-team role after making 21 league appearances last season and impressing in pre-season under Regis Le Bris. Yet few expected the 17-year-old to become such a crucial figure for the Black Cats. With 28 Championship games under his belt, alongside four goals and an assist, Rigg has firmly established himself as a key player.
However, during Sunderland’s recent comfortable victory over Luton Town, some fans felt that Rigg looked fatigued, possibly due to his relentless schedule since the Boxing Day draw against Blackburn Rovers. With key players returning to fitness, Le Bris may now have the opportunity to rotate his squad. Alan Browne and Romaine Mundle are set to return for Monday’s clash against Leeds United, making it a potential moment for Rigg to step aside.
Gary Bennett has raised concerns that Rigg could soon find himself out of the starting lineup. Mundle’s return creates a selection headache on the left flank, where Enzo Le Fee has been excelling. Le Fee’s current form makes him nearly undroppable, while Tommy Watson is also close to making a comeback. If Le Fee is shifted into a central role to accommodate Mundle, Rigg might be the player sacrificed.
Speaking on *Total Sport*, former Sunderland defender Bennett speculated: “I think both Mundle and Le Fee will start. But given how impressive Le Fee has been, he’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet. If he moves into midfield, the player who typically makes way in these situations is the youngest one – and that’s Chris Rigg.”
Rigg’s future at Sunderland is also a talking point, especially if the club fails to secure promotion. The highly-rated youngster has already attracted attention from Premier League giants, with Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly leading the chase. Sunderland have placed a £25 million valuation on him ahead of the summer transfer window. However, if Rigg’s playing time diminishes in the latter half of the season, it could influence both his potential departure and the transfer fee he commands.
Regardless of Rigg’s situation, Le Bris having an abundance of quality options is a positive for Sunderland as they prepare to face Leeds United on Monday night at 8pm.
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