Sunderland overcame Middlesbrough 1-0 to return to winning ways in the Championship thanks to Chris Rigg’s sole goal.
In a close game at the Stadium of Light, Rigg netted an incredible backheel goal in the first half to ensure Sunderland claimed all three points.
The victory was no doubt needed for Regis Le Bris’ side to help maintain their promotion push to the Premier League which suffered a wobble last weekend after their 3-2 defeat to Plymouth.
As a result, multiple players stepped up to ensure that the Stadium of Light faithful witnessed a victory over their local rivals, who have traditionally picked up a result against the Black Cats.
However, the standout player from the match was easily Rigg, with the 17-year-old earning the praise of multiple Sunderland fans for his performance.
Sunderland fans believe Chris Rigg will be an England international in three years
It is easy to forget how young Rigg is. Since his debut in January 2023, the midfielder has slowly become an integral part of the Sunderland squad.
In the summer, Rigg committed his future to Sunderland, with many fans believing that the youngster is a generational talent.
Now, after his goal earned the Black Cats a fifth win in six Championship games, fans were quick to take to social media to praise his performance.
As a result of his repeated good performances at such a young age, many now feel that an England call-up is not too far away for Rigg.
Chris Rigg is going to the top, with or without Sunderland
One thing is clear, Rigg is going to the top. To have the audacity to backheel the ball into the net without looking takes skill, and the midfielder no doubt possesses that in abundance.
At this rate, the fans are not wrong, Rigg will likely be in an England shirt sooner rather than later.
Combined with this, Premier League football also looks inevitable and the Black Cats need to ensure it is them who introduces the midfielder to the top flight and not another side.
Promotion in this campaign may well be vital if Sunderland wants to hold onto the top stars, and thankfully, they look to be on track to achieve this feat.