Sunderland head to rock bottom side Sheffield Wednesday on Friday as they look to return to winning ways, they should play this wonderkid to help them do so.
Sunderland will fancy their chances against a side who are yet to claim a win this season, but a win for the Black Cats could move them into fourth possibly.
Tony Mowbray‘s side remain in the playoff places despite losing 1-0 to Cardiff City on Sunday as they look set to be a playoff side for the second consecutive season.
Mowbray will have a decision to make against a side who are slightly weaker than most of the league.
But will that decision include Chris Rigg making his inaugural league start for the club? Here’s why it should…
Rigg playing first team football could keep him at the Stadium of Light
Due to Rigg being a huge talent, the draw of top clubs was inevitable but giving him first team football to a high level could be enough for him to remain here for the foreseeable.
With Manchester United among clubs interested, they would likely only be able to offer him an academy role initially, but we can do more.
So give him a start here to show him he is valued, we are sure he will excel as he has in any feature he’s made thus far.
Rigg can hurt Wednesday
Wednesday are a poor side, so taking what Mowbray likely sees as a risk , couldn’t come at a better time.
Sunderland are probably expecting themselves to score some goals and dominate Wednesday.
The game will be really physical against Wednesday which could and should be a baptism of fire for Rigg.
He has already shown his ability to perform in the league so giving him a chance from the start makes sense here.
Natural next step
Firmly positioned in and around the first team, the next step for Rigg is a start.
He has been introduced slowly thus far into the team with some cameos and regular bench sittings.
But if he is to kick on, he needs to play, and this seems to be the perfect time.