‘Rigg to knock on Le Bris’ door at Sunderland’ ahead of Sheffield United clash
Chris Rigg is bound to be in Regis Le Bris’ office as Sunderland prepare to face Sheffield United in the play-off final.
The Black Cats secured a place at Wembley last time out thanks to an already iconic Dan Ballard header in the last seconds of extra time.
This booked a place in the richest game in football with a place in the Premier League on the line as both sides look to take advantage.
With that in mind, Rigg will be keen to make his presence felt to his manager with just over a week until the showpiece fixture in the capital.
Rigg to make demands to start v Sheffield United
There aren’t many players in the Mackems’ squad right now who would revel in taking his side back to the top tier more than the teenager.
The 17-year-old is an extremely bright prospect and has had an excellent campaign for such a young player in a difficult division.
This has seen the midfielder make 42 appearances in the Championship and he will be hoping for a final start of the season in the play-off final.
| Stat (Championship 24/25) | Chris Rigg |
| Appearances | 42 |
| Starts | 36 |
| Goal involvements | 5 |
Rigg was an 83rd-minute substitute last time out against Coventry City as he replaced Wilson Isidor with seven minutes, plus extra time, remaining.
No Black Cats fan would begrudge the Englishman for feeling frustrated with this lack of minutes, especially with a lack of impact from the likes of Patrick Roberts in SR5.
As a result, the teen sensation is highly likely to get in the ear of Le Bris ahead of the final at Wembley to demand a place in the starting 11.
Whether that be at the cost of Isidor, Roberts or even Eliezer Mayenda, Rigg won’t care as long as he gets the chance to shine and take his side to glory.
Sunderland must be at their best to beat Sheffield United
There is no doubt that Chris Wilder’s side will represent an extremely difficult opposition after a largely excellent season in Yorkshire.
The likes of Ben Brereton-Diaz, Tom Cannon and Gustavo Hamer will certainly cause problems, but aren’t impossible to score against.
As a result, Rigg will fancy his chances against the Blades, especially with someone like Enzo Le Fee backing him up in midfield.