Chris Rigg, a young player for Sunderland, signed his first professional contract and committed to the team for the future.
With 22 games and a record-breaking season, the England Under-17 captain made history last season as Sunderland’s youngest striker ever.
He was linked to several Premier League teams, including bitter rivals Newcastle United, when his 17-year-old contract was about to expire. However, he has finally ended the rumors by agreeing to a new three-year contract.
“I am absolutely buzzing, to be honest,” he told the Sunderland club website after the deal was agreed. “It is a proud moment for myself and my family to be signing my first professional contract at a club like Sunderland.
“I have been dying to sign it for almost a year now. I want to develop as a player and improve as a person – and I believe this is the best place for me to do that.
“All the staff have been unbelievable with me throughout my journey at the Academy of Light, but there are still so many improvements I can make. The hard work starts now, but I am looking forward to making many more memories representing this club.”
The news comes as another major boost to Sunderland following the recent appointment of new manager Régis Le Bris.
“I’m delighted for Chris, who has always communicated to us that Sunderland is where he wants to be,” Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said. “Chris’ talent, and more recently his performances within the first team, made interest and speculation inevitable, and it is a testament to all behind the scenes that he has committed his future to our club.”
