Tony Mowbray is ‘delighted’ for Chris Rigg after the Sunderland midfielder was named in England’s U17 World Cup squad.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Mowbray said it was a ‘fantastic’ achievement for the youngster, but admitted he might struggle to get back into the team.
Chris Rigg has gone from strength to strength since making his Sunderland debut in January. The teenager made two Cup appearances last season before he was sidelined with injury.
Rigg has been named in the match-day squad much more regularly this time round, making six appearances in the Championship and netting his first goal in the 5-0 win over Southampton.
Rigg made his England U15 debut last year and has already risen up the ranks and made his U18 debut last month.
The 16-year-old was today called up to the U17 World Cup and is set to captain the youth side, with the tournament taking place in Indonesia this month.
Rigg could miss up to four matches in the Championship if the Young Lions make it to the final, and Mowbray has admitted he will have to fight for his place in the team when he returns.
“I’m delighted for him, disappointed that he’s going to miss four games for the team of course,” Mowbray said.
“Delighted for Chris, it’s a fantastic achievement for him to potentially captain that team as well.
“We had a long chat with him, delighted for him, it’s a fantastic experience and this club would never deny a young guy playing for his country at a World Cup.
“He has to understand when he comes back, hopefully the results have been really positive and he finds it difficult to get back in the group
“We are delighted for him he’s going to a World Cup and hopefully he can be successful.”
Can Sunderland replace Chris Rigg?
Chris Rigg definitely won’t be given a pass straight back into the Sunderland squad once he returns.
However, I’m not sure the Black Cats actually have enough depth in the middle of the park not to welcome him back with open arms.
We have already seen recent absences of Pierre Ekwah and Dan Neil really affect the squad, while Jay Matete and Corry Evans’ injuries also leaves Mowbray limited for options.
If Rigg performs really well at the U17 World Cup, then he could arguably have a more of a chance at impressing in the Championship – especially over the busy Christmas period.