For the forthcoming European under-17s Championships in Cyprus later this month, Rigg and Shahar have both been called up to the England under-17 squad. Premier League teams, such as Newcastle United and Manchester United, have expressed a great deal of interest in signing Rigg, who made 21 Championship appearances for Sunderland in the 2023–24 season.
Chris Rigg, a Sunderland player, congratulated a Newcastle United academy graduate on signing a deal with The Magpies.
Leo Shahar, a defender for Newcastle United and the England youth squad, inked his first professional deal earlier this month. Rigg, another member of the Three Lions, was quick to respond on social media.
In response to Shahar’s new deal, Rigg said, “I love it.” Due to suspension, Rigg will be unavailable for the Young Lions’ opening group play on Tuesday, May 21 against France. Rigg was sent off in a qualifying match back in March.
In Group D, England’s next opponents are Portugal on Friday, May 24, and Spain on Monday, May 27. The top two teams advance to the quarterfinals. The competition’s championship match is scheduled for Wednesday, June 5.
The young player was unable to play in Sunderland’s under-21 Premier League 2 semi-final versus Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium due to Rigg’s England call-up. After a thrilling 3–4 overtime victory away from home, the Black Cats proceeded to face Tottenham in the championship game.
The Hebburn native committed to a two-year scholarship with the Black Cats last summer, but according to FA regulations, Rigg cannot sign a professional contract until June 18, when he becomes 17 years old. Several English and European clubs have already expressed interest in signing the midfield player.
“I think for Chris he’s had a really accelerated trajectory over the last couple of seasons,” Sunderland under-21s assistant coach John Hewitson said to The Echo when asked about Rigg’s development this season. He has consistently challenged and played up to the academy. He simply has a mindset that doesn’t allow anything to phase him. All we can hope for is that he continues to advance in the first team and make a significant contribution. We wish to confirm that he’s a star for us.