Teenager Chris Rigg can be the new “symbol” of Sunderland, says head coach Regis Le Bris.
The 17-year-old scored the only goal of the game as the Black Cats beat Middlesbrough in the Wear-Tees derby.
It was midfielder Rigg’s fourth goal in 32 senior appearances, as his influence grows within the team.
“Chris Rigg is a good symbol of what we want to create and what we want to build as a team and as a club,” said Le Bris.
The perceived wisdom is that Sunderland sold their best player in the summer when Jack Clarke went to Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town.
But his departure has created an opportunity for others to step up and Rigg has seized the initiative.
He was handed his debut by former Black Cats boss Tony Mowbray aged 15 years and 203 days when he came on as a substitute against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup in January 2023 – making him the youngest outfield player in the club’s history.
He scored on his first league appearance against Southampton in September last year when still only 16.
Not 18 until next summer, the youngster has impressed Le Bris with his maturity and his willingness to learn.
“I don’t think the age is a problem. You can have a high level of maturity at 17 and you can have a low level of maturity at 30,” said the Frenchman.
“It depends on the player’s personality. Chris still wants to improve, he still wants to understand the game.”
‘Chris has character to play’
In a side which has not used a single player aged 30 or above, it is Sunderland’s youngest who is shining brightest.
Le Bris recognises that Rigg has a long way to go before he reaches the top of the game, but he is enjoying working with the youngster from Hebburn.
“I don’t say I am not surprised by him but when you create opportunities for young players you can discover many young talents. They just need opportunities,” said Le Bris.
“Some of them can succeed, for others it takes more time, months or even years. But Chris has this character, this personality to play whatever the circumstances so I like that.
“He is also a very good team-mate so he is a very good symbol for us.”