Chris Rigg has been featuring for England’s under-17s at the U17 World Cup in Indonesia, but was knocked out by Uzbekistan.
Chris Rigg will be incredibly disappointed as England was sent packing in the round of 16 during the U17 World Cup in Indonesia.
Much was made of Rigg’s inclusion in the squad with many excited to see him at such a prestigious youth tournament.
It was a real shock defeat which few saw coming given the difference in levels that were perceived to be in place. The Young Lions lost 2-1 at the Jakarta International Stadium.
Rigg played a huge role in the result as he sublimely put Joel Ndala through to finish which at the time turned out to be an equaliser.
Ultimately it wasn’t enough as Rigg and England are not set to head home in time for a busy December period where he will be keen to feature for Sunderland.
But how did Rigg perform, and will Tony Mowbray be impressed?
How Chris Rigg performed for England’s U17
Despite the tournament exit coming as a disappointment, on an individual level, Rigg will be quite pleased with himself.
Growing into the tournament he made his first appearance in the 2-1 win over Iran. Rigg played 59 minutes and boasted a 76% pass completion rate according to SofaScore.
This performance was improved in a 29-minute cameo against Brazil last week. A 92% passing accuracy and two duels won allowed him to showcase his talent and ability on a high level.
His display against Brazil likely prompted the start against Uzbekistan in which he played 62 minutes and assisted England’s only goal. Rigg made two key passes and had a 75% pass accuracy which is acceptable given he was going well creatively. He also won three duels.
Will he get some game-time at Sunderland?
We have previously called for Rigg to play for the Black Cats given his immense talent, but after this disappointment and in a busy period he should be on track now.
Tony Mowbray is rightfully cautious with Rigg and doesn’t want to throw him in too early to avoid burning him out, but he definitely is deserving of a start at some point.
Especially now he has impressed on the international stage.