Carlton Palmer makes ‘betrayal’ claim at Sunderland amid Chris Rigg exit link
Carlton Palmer does not see Chris Rigg leaving Sunderland to join rivals Newcastle United.
Rigg has been somewhat of a phenomenon for Sunderland this season and has become a name that many are aware of despite him being just 17 years old.
His performances in the Championship have been exemplary and links to Manchester United among other clubs come as no surprise.
However, one club that Palmer can’t see Rigg joining is Newcastle United, despite his Magpie links.
Speaking to Football League World (25 November), he said: “I know some Sunderland fans would see that as a betrayal, but Newcastle are going really well under Eddie Howe. He’s done a fantastic job.
“Newcastle have been chasing Chris Rigg for a long time. They were interested in getting him before he signed his first professional contract at Sunderland.
“No disrespect to Newcastle United, but Chris Rigg will be bound for a top club either in the UK or in Europe. I think he’s destined for the top of the game, if he continues to make the progress and the strides that he is doing.”
Chris Rigg unlikely to leave Sunderland in January
It would be ludicrous for the Black Cats to consider an exit for any of their star players, let alone one with the potential ceiling possessed by Rigg.
January will provide teams with a big chance to strengthen their squad ahead of a final push and weakening your side simply doesn’t make any sense.
If the Wearsiders are to have a real shot at promotion, they need to retain their key players and despite being just 17 years old, Rigg is one of them.
A four-game winless run has meant that Sunderland lost their spot at the top of the Championship although victory against West Brom on Tuesday (26 November) would see them reclaim their place at the summit of the division.
The start to the campaign under Regis Le Bris has put the Black Cats in excellent stead to achieve something special this season but they must consider the consequences of selling their best players in January.
In other Sunderland news, Liverpool want to sign one of the Black Cats’ most promising players.
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