Another Sunderland player has joined Chris Rigg in signing a new contract with the club.
Rigg is expected to put pen to paper on his first professional deal on Wearside ‘fairly soon’, having waited until Sunderland appointed a new manager to make a decision on his future.
It is a huge relief for the Black Cats, who have batted away interest from the likes of Man City, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
It is shaping up to be a brilliant start of the month for Sunderland, while they have now confirmed that another promising academy graduate has signed a new contract too.
Tom Lavery has agreed terms on his first professional contract, extending his stay until 2026 with the option of a further year.
Following the news, Academy Manager, Robin Nicholls, said: “Tom and his family have been with the Academy for several years now and he has shown great progress during this time. Tom’s commitment and development was rewarded last season by being included in the First Team Matchday squad on three occasions early in 2024. We are delighted that he sees his future here with the Club and has signed a contract that ensures the next steps in his career will be with SAFC.”
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Tom Lavery deserves a ‘chance’ in pre-season
Lavery made 22 appearances in all competitions last season, featuring mainly for the U18s but also debuting for the U21s.
After starting six matches for the reserves, the defender also made three cameo appearances in the Premier League 2 play-offs.
His form also earned him a place on the bench for the senior squad on three occasions, though is yet to make his senior debut.
Sunderland Echo reported back in March that Lavery was one of four youngsters who had been offered a contract, and has now committed his future to the club.
Journalist Matty Hewitt has expressed his delight at the 18-year-old’s commitment, writing on X: “Tom Lavery is one that really impressed me for #SAFC U21s last season. A good bit of business.
“An attacking right-back who can also play at centre-half. I’d like to see him get a chance in pre-season!”
The teenager could solve Sunderland’s defensive problem
Lavery will be one of a number of players looking to impress Regis Le Bris, but Sunderland’s lack of defensive options could give him a boost.
Trai Hume’s presence makes it unlikely that he could force his way in on the right, but his ability to play centrally could catch Le Bris’ eye.
Dan Ballard and Luke O’Nien are a staple of Sunderland’s backline now, but Jenson Seelt’s long-term injury means Nectarios Triantis is their only real back-up.
While only 18, Lavery will be eager to follow in Rigg’s footsteps and force his way into the first-team set-up – starting with a successful pre-season.