Has to understand’: Sunderland boss admits ‘fantastic’ ace could struggle to get back in his team

Tony Mowbray is ‘delighted’ for Chris Rigg after he was named to England’s U17 World Cup squad.

Mowbray said in his pre-match press conference that it was a ‘fantastic’ achievement for the youngster, but that he might struggle to get back into the team.
Chris Rigg has grown in stature since making his Sunderland debut in January. Last season, the teenager made two Cup appearances before being sidelined by injury.

Rigg has been named to the matchday squad much more frequently this season, appearing in six Championship games and scoring his first goal in the 5-0 win over Southampton.

It looks likely then, that Newcastle will have to get past Chelsea without Hall in the side.
Rigg made his England U15 debut last year and has quickly progressed through the ranks, making his U18 debut last month.

The 16-year-old was called up to the U17 World Cup today and will captain the youth team, which will be held in Indonesia later this month.

Rigg could miss up to four Championship games if the Young Lions reach the final, and Mowbray has admitted that when he returns, he will have to fight for his place in the team.

“I’m delighted for him, disappointed that he’s going to miss four games for the team of course,” Mowbray said in a statement.

“Delighted for Chris, it’s a fantastic achievement for him to potentially captain that team as well.

“We had a long chat with him, delighted for him, it’s a fantastic experience and this club would never deny a young guy playing for his country at a World Cup.

“He has to understand when he comes back, hopefully the results have been really positive and he finds it difficult to get back in the group

“We are delighted for him he’s going to a World Cup and hopefully he can be successful.”

 

Can Sunderland replace Chris Rigg?

Chris Rigg will not be thrown straight back into the Sunderland squad when he returns.

However, I’m not sure the Black Cats have enough depth in the middle of the park to not welcome him back.

The recent absences of Pierre Ekwah and Dan Neil have already had a significant impact on the squad, while the injuries to Jay Matete and Corry Evans have also limited Mowbray’s options.

If Rigg does well at the U17 World Cup, he may have a better chance of impressing in the Championship, especially during the busy Christmas season.