Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has urged midfielder Chris Rigg to develop a ‘connection’ with other members of the squad.
The 17-year-old has emerged as the crown jewel of the Black Cats’ academy over the past 18 months, although he has really come into his own this season. He has been a regular fixture in the starting lineup, making 16 appearances in all competitions, scoring three times.
His ability has long been known by potential admirers. His future was the subject of constant speculation last summer before he eventually penned his first professional deal at the Stadium of Light in July. However, that hasn’t put off potential suitors, with the likes of Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal all keeping tabs on the teenager.
Le Bris Praises Rigg But Calls For Slight Improvement
Rigg has been central to Sunderland’s shock early promotion challenge. This has seen Le Bris heap praise on the midfielder. Speaking to the Essential EFL podcast, via Sunderland AFC News, the Frenchman said:
“It is really impressive, the way he can repeat performances game after game. Before training this team, it was hard to predict the way they would connect with each other and with the model we play. But Rigg connected well with Trai [Hume] and Patrick [Roberts]; a connection and relationship between not one but three players.”
Despite that, the academy graduate is still in the early stages of his career, with the head coach identifying one area of improvement in his game:
“We have individuals but more importantly it’s how we connect to create something new. Rigg is a great example of this; he is 30-40% better when he plays with Patrick. When he’s connected he’s really impressive. We need more of those connections.”
Writer’s View
Regis Le Bris has handled Chris Rigg exceptionally well this season and is reaping the rewards as a result. Sunderland fans were crying out to see the teenager given more of an opportunity under previous permanent boss Michael Beale and the midfielder is now showing why he was so highly rated amongst his own. This latest quote shows smart management, piling on the praise whilst offering small pieces of advice on how he can improve his game.
Head of Writing
