Chris Riggs
Sunderland’s rising star, Chris Rigg, expressed his excitement and satisfaction following a recent win, highlighting his strong connection with the team and the club’s supporters. Rigg, who has been a pivotal figure in Sunderland’s recent success, continues to make headlines with his impressive performances and dedication to the club he grew up supporting.
Rigg said: “I’m buzzing to be fair. It’s so good to be in a team where you know everyone’s got your back. For example, if someone lost the ball, I’d know I’d work for them. And the opposite, if I lost the ball, they’d work for me.”
Rigg added: “I think it’s every boy’s dream to be a Premier League player. And not just to be a Premier League player, to be a player that’s grown up in this city, this town and what it means for the fans. So like you say on the pitch, I give it my all for the fans.”
He continued: “Yeah, I can’t get too much on a high because there’s always something around the corner. There was no choice there; I was always going to do that. Because I know what this club means, their ambitions, and you can see it on the pitch. So yeah, just buzzing.”
Rigg’s commitment to Sunderland was further solidified when he signed a new long-term contract in August 2025, securing his future with the club until 2030. This agreement followed Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League, acknowledging Rigg’s significant contributions during the successful 2024–25 campaign. His outstanding performances earned him the Championship Apprentice of the Year award, underscoring his importance to the team.
The club’s management has expressed their delight in retaining such a promising talent. Rigg’s journey from the academy to the senior squad exemplifies Sunderland’s strategy and culture of nurturing and developing homegrown talent. His development is a testament to the club’s commitment to promoting young players and integrating them into the first team.
Rigg’s story is not just about individual success but also about the collective effort of Sunderland’s academy and staff, who have played crucial roles in his progression. As Rigg continues to shine on the Premier League stage, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers in Sunderland and beyond.