Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Wed 16 April 2025 12:00, UK

Sunderland have enjoyed a magnificent campaign to date, and two players could be rewarded for their contributions. 

After the draw against Norwich City, Sunderland sealed their spot in the playoffs, leaving them with a little to play for until May.

However, that is an achievement in itself, given the disappointing campaign they endured in the Championship last time out.

Several players have contributed plenty to the season, but two in particular may be in line to receive recognition for their performances throughout it.

Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg nominated for awards

Premier League football could be returning to Wearside next season, and if so, it would be a remarkable achievement for Sunderland.

Against all odds, the Black Cats look to have cemented a fourth-place finish, making them the best ‘non-parachute’ team in the league, and that wouldn’t have been possible without their teenage midfield duo. 

Jobe and Chris Rigg have been outstanding for Sunderland this season, and the pair have been nominated for the Championship Young Player of the Season award and Apprentice of the Season, as announced on the club’s social channels.

Regis Le Bris has also been nominated for an award of his own, though with company such as Daniel Farke and Scott Parker, he has some tough competition. 

Sunderland are nine games away from Premier League football 

If Sunderland are to achieve promotion, performances will have to improve from the most recent displays.

However, with nothing to play for in the final four games for the campaign, fitness will be just as important to their chances of making a return to the English top flight.

Bristol City are the opponents up next for Sunderland, and could end up being the opponent for the playoff semi-finals depending on results between now and the end of the season.

While individual awards are always welcome, there will be no greater award for Sunderland than achieving promotion back to the Premier League.