Kristjaan Speakman reacts after transfer speculation on Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg
Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has praised Chris Rigg for his performances and conduct since making the step up to the Sunderland first team.
Rigg has been a key part of Sunderland’s success so far this season with performances alerting clubs such as Manchester United who have expressed an interest in signing the 17-year-old according to Manchester Evening News.
Speakman spoke to the Second Tier podcast (13 October) regarding Rigg where he jokingly claimed that the Sunderland star has ‘done alright’ and reacted to the speculation linking with a move elsewhere.
He said: “Riggy’s done alright, he’s done alright. Really really pleased for him cause he’s such a good kid and also there was a lot of speculation on him last season, coming out of the Under-21 team and his academy contract; will he stay? Will he go somewhere else? For our football club to be able to retain talent like that as we have done is a really positive thing.
“He’s had opportunities in the team and has taken those opportunities. Really pleased for him and hopefully that gives good inspiration to our other players in our academy system that when the opportunity is there they’ll be given time on the pitch.”
Sunderland must retain Chris Rigg
It’s easier said than done, granted, but Sunderland need to retain Rigg’s services for as long as possible before an inevitable departure happens.
Rigg has been exceptional all season under Regis Le Bris and he continues to develop as each game passes by. Goals against Leeds United and Middlesbrough, the latter earning him the club goal of the month award, have brightened the spotlight on him even further.
Manchester United aren’t the only club to have been linked with Rigg recently, with Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid also reportedly keeping a close eye on his development (HITC).
Whilst losing Rigg will be a huge disappointment when the day comes, Sunderland will likely receive a club-record fee for the youngster if previous Championship sales are anything to by.
Rigg has been tipped by many to feature for England in the coming years alongside Jobe Bellingham potentially who has also excelled in Sunderland’s midfield this season, leading the club to be top of the division.
In other Sunderland news, In other Sunderland news, Gus Poyet has told Sunderland they must avoid the urge to cash in on prized assets this January.
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