Granit Xhaka
Chris Rigg, the youngest Sunderland starter in a Premier League-era derby, played a pivotal role in Sunderland’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park. The emotional win in the Tyne-Wear derby was a significant moment for the 18-year-old midfielder, who shared insights into his personal journey, the influence of Granit Xhaka, and the impact of teammate Brian Brobbey.
Chris Rigg said: “He just watched it at home, there’s nothing else to say, really. Yes, exactly. But he’ll be happy for his son, like anyone would.”
Rigg continued: “I think that was the most important thing. I was thinking about it all week, all the different scenarios in my head, as you would because I’m human. That was the best one today. Yes, it means the world to me. I got a bit emotional after the game, and I got a bit emotional before the game.”
He added: “Walking onto the pitch, it was still quite surreal, obviously. Being a local lad and walking out at St James’ Park, it’s still a big achievement for me personally, and I think it is for most of the lads because those are the games you dream of playing when you’re a kid.”
Rigg remarked: “That’s what Granit said before the game, you dream to play in these games. Obviously, when we went 1-0 down, I thought we kept our heads really well because it could have gone one, two, three. But it didn’t, and then we scored two, so I think that’s just how it went.”
He emphasized: “Like I said before, it’s not a tactical problem, I think that was just heart that was just us playing for the badge, playing for the city. We knew we had to go out there and give the fans something. I think that was just heart, and we had more heart than them today.”
Rigg praised Brobbey: “If he’s any more laid back, he’ll fall over. He’s exactly the same as he is on the pitch. He’s just so chilled-out, and he’s such a nice guy, you can speak to him about anything. And he’s an immense footballer as well.”
He reflected on his development: “One hundred per cent. I’ve had a lot more time to work on my game, especially this season, because I haven’t been in the team, so I’ve had a lot of opportunities to work on myself and get better, and I think I’ve done that. I just need to keep the consistency now.”
Rigg on Xhaka’s influence: “He’s the best. No, I wasn’t in tears, I just got a bit emotional in the changing room. Me and Luke had a bit of a moment because we’ve played a lot of seasons here, and obviously Luke’s been here for how many years. He just gave me a hug and said, ‘Wow!’.”
Rigg concluded: “That’s the main thing, that’s why I’m playing as well as I am, because they give me trust. It means the world to me.”
Rigg’s reflections on the derby highlight the emotional depth of the occasion, particularly given his mixed family loyalties. His father, a Newcastle supporter, chose to watch the match from home, adding a personal layer to Rigg’s experience. The young midfielder’s development has been significantly influenced by Granit Xhaka, whose words resonated with Rigg before the match. Despite missing key players, Sunderland’s victory was attributed to their heart and determination, as emphasized by Rigg. The midfielder also expressed gratitude for the support from Sunderland fans, which has been a driving force in his performance.
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