In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, journalist Ben Jacobs stated that Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Sunderland prospect Chris Rigg. Jacobs said,
“It’s one to watch, for sure. Even though he is at Sunderland, a vast proportion of his family are all Newcastle fans as well. I think that one could be one to watch in January. Newcastle are concurrently planning for their future as well as the present. Garang Kuol is a good example and so is Harrison Ashby, who West Ham simply didn’t want to lose. Newcastle have made a few moves for young players in the market and beaten rivals to them. Rigg is seen as one of the top midfield prospects in the country and he is also only 16 years of age at the moment. He scored against Southampton last weekend. When he got that goal, he also became Sunderland’s youngest-ever league scorer. But he needs minutes and time to develop as well, so the player side won’t want to rush into anything. However, there’s absolutely no doubt that Newcastle are keeping tabs, and I would say that is exactly the same for Manchester United as well.”
Rigg’s Impressive Rise At The Stadium Of Light
Rigg has come through the youth ranks of Sunderland and has done well to break into their first team earlier this year. The 16-year-old has scored two goals in five senior appearances for the English outfit thus far across all competitions
The gifted teenager has caught the eye with his performances at the centre of the park and is currently amongst the best young players in the EFL Championship.
Newcastle United Are Keeping Tabs On Rigg: Is He A Star In The Making?
Rigg loves a tackle and doesn’t hesitate to clear his lines when his teammates are in danger of being caught out at the back. He is a decent dribbler with the ball and has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the final third.
The English midfielder can even strike the ball purely from long range. However, he is still very raw and would need time to adapt to life in Premier League football.
Still, at 16, there is no denying that Rigg is a star in the making, so Newcastle should consider going all out to recruit him next year. Eddie Howe could be the ideal man to nurture his development and get the best out of him at St. James’ Park in the coming seasons.
