Don Goodman tells Sunderland to stand firm amid Chris Rigg interest
Don Goodman has claimed that Sunderland shouldn’t entertain any offers for Chris Rigg in January amid Premier League links.
Rigg has become a mainstay in the Black Cats side under Regis Le Bris and his form has attracted interest from several European clubs.
Manchester United were reported to be the favourites to obtain his signature (Sunderland AFC News) but Goodman has told Mackem News January would be the wrong time to entertain that interest.
He said: “At the minute, is he a £40million pound footballer? No. I know that’s said with the greatest of respect. But do you think that he has the possibility of being a £40million-pound footballer or even more? Absolutely.
“But he needs to develop. You know, you see him influence games and then you see him have quieter games. And that’s because he’s 17 years old. And that’s what happens when you’re 17 years old. It’s very, very difficult to be uber-consistent when you’re 17 years old. But real talent, really impressed.
“Not surprised about any links to any of the top clubs in England and beyond England. Again, a little bit like Dennis Cirkin, and Jobe Bellingham. If I’m Sunderland, I ain’t letting him have any hope of leaving in January.“
January could be key to addressing downfalls at Sunderland
A defeat to Sheffield United extended the Wearsider’s winless run to six, having drawn the previous five and saw them drop down into fourth.
After a remarkable start to the campaign, expectations seemingly changed and a side who had aimed for play-offs prior to the season are now looking at a top-two finish but things need to improve for that to happen.
While avoiding defeat is a good foundation, the Black Cats’ inability to take their chances in a game has seen them drop many, many points in recent weeks with Wilson Isidor the only player looking capable of scoring goals.
A missed penalty for Patrick Roberts summed up his downfall in the final third which has seen him score just once in his last 18 months at Sunderland, despite being a regular starter.
The injury to Romaine Mundle hasn’t helped either, given he was the biggest attacking threat prior to his absence.
January will provide an excellent opportunity to add one or two to their attacking lineup in a bid to find that cutting edge in closely contested encounters.
If Sunderland can address that, a top-two finish is more than achievable.
In other Sunderland news, Don Goodman has praised supporters for their sense of realism.
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